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A HISTORY 



COLONIZATION 



WESTERN COAST OF AFRICA 



ARCHIBALD ^ALEXANDER, D.D., 

PROFESSOR IN THE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AT PRINCETOiN, NEW JERSEY. 



PHILADELPHIA: 
"WILLIAM S. MARTI EN, No. 37 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET. 
NEW YORK, No. 23 CENTRE STREET. 
1846. 

(V.. /, 



Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1846, by 

William S. Martien, 

In the office of the Clerk of the District Court for the Eastern 

District of Pennsylvania. 



ADYEETISEMENT. 

The following history was commenced several years since, and 
was continued until the year 1834, when the author, in conse- 
quence of other publications on the same subject, and the 
pressure of professional duties, laid the work aside, and re- 
linquished the design of publishing what he had written. But 
being earnestly solicited by some of the friends of Colonization 
to complete the history, and bring it before the public, he has 
been induced to revise what he had written; and not being 
disposed at his time of life to encounter the labour of continuing 
the history himself, he has committed the work to two young 
gentlemen, students in the Theological Seminary at this place, 
who have with great care continued the narrative, and brought 
it down to the decease of Governor Buchanan, near the close 
of the year 1841. The more recent events are fresh in the 
memory of all who take an interest in the prosperity of the 
colony of Liberia. 

Princeton, New Jersey, 

January 6, 1846. 



CONTENTS 



Introduction . 



CHAPTER I. 

DESCRIPTION OF THE WESTERN COAST OF AFRICA. 

Face of the Country. Soil. Climate. Productions. Native Tribes. Govern, 
ment. Tribes in the vicinity of Sierra Leone. Their Habits, Language, 
and Religion. Topography of Sierra Leone. The Slave Trade. Effects 
of Colonization ■ '^^ 

CHAPTER H. 

ORIGIN OF THE COLONl' AT SIERRA LEONE. 

Disasters attending the First Settlement. A second company is sent from 
Nova Scotia. Settlement at Freetovsrn. Great Mortality. Unexpected 
cost of the undertaking. Visit of a French Squadron. Arrival of Ma- 
roons from Jamaica. State of the Colony. Church Missionary Society 
for Africa and the East 39 

CHAPTER HI. 

ORIGIN OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Dr. Hopkins. His Missionary Scheme. Dr. Styles joins him. Public Ap- 
peal. Reply from the Christian Knowledge Society of Scotland. Bristol 
Yamma and John Quamine sent to Princeton. Letter of Philip Quaqiie. 
Salmur Nuba. A Second Circular issued. The Enterprise frustrated 
by the War. Dr. Hopkins' Scheme first suggested the idea of African 
Colonization. Labours after the War. Remarkable Case of Newport 
Gardner. After the lapse of half a century Gardner and Nuba are or- 
dained Deacons in a church formed at Boston for Liberia 48 

CHAPTER IV. 

HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

American Slavery at the close of the Revolution. Thomas Jefferson. Afri- 
can Colonization first seriously contemplated by Dr. Thornton, of Wash- 
ington. Great attention to the subject of Slavery in Virginia. Flan of 
A* 



VI CONTENTS. 

Mr. Craighead. Plan of Judge Tucker. Action of the Virginia Legis- 
lature. Letters between President Jefferson and Governor Monroe. In- 
tention of the Resolution of tlic Virginia House of Delegates in Secret 
Session. Jefferson's Letter to Governor Page. Consequent action of the 
Legislature. Ann Mifflin's Scheme. Letters to and from Jefferson. Charles 
Fenton Mercer. His Speech at a Public Dinner. Dr. Robert Finley, the 
Father of the American Colonization Society. Some Notice of his Life. 
The First Public Meeting in America to consider the subject of Coloni- 
zation, held at Princeton, New Jersey 53 

CHAPTER V. 

PROCEEDINGS AT WASHINGTON. 

Dr. Finley goes to Washington. Public Meeting there. Speeches of Messrs. 
Clay, Caldwell, Randolph, and Wright. Preamble and Resolutions offered 
by Mr. Caldwell and adopted. Formation of tlie American Colonization 
Society. Constitution. First Meeting January 1, 1817. Officers. Memo- 
rial to Congress. Report of the Committee of the House of Representa- 
tives. Suggested Negotiations. Joint Resolutions. Effect of the action 
of Congress 80 

CHAPTER VI. 

VOYAGE OF MESSRS. MILLS AND BURGESS. 

Rev. Samuel J. Mills. His Colonization Sciieme. His Plan for Educating 
the People of Colour. Approves of Dr. Finley's Plan, and devotes himself 
to the cause. With Dr. Burgess sails for Africa. Visit England on the 
way. Arrive at Sierra Leone. Extracts from Mills' Journal. John Kiz- 
zell — account of him. Letter of Governor Columbine. Kizzell's Com- 
munications. Sail for Sherbro. Extracts from Journal. Return. Death 
of Mills 98 

CHAPTER VH. 

FIRST EXPEDITION TO AFRICA IN THE ELIZABETH, 

Congress pass an act authorizing the institution of an Agency in Africa. 
Rev. San)uel Bacon and Mr. John P. Bankson appointed Agents. Dr. 
Samuel Crozer Agent of the Colonization Society. Rules for Emigrants. 
Sailing of the Elizabeth in company with the Sloop-of-war Cyane. Arri- 
val of the Elizabeth. Cyane arrives. After consultation determine to locate 
on Sherbro Island. Kizzell suspected. Conference. Troubles of the Colo- 
nists. Sickness and death among them. Death of the Agents 112 

CHAPTER VHI. 

STATE OP THE COLONY AFTER THE DEATH OF THE AGENTS. 

The Board not discouraged. Rev. Daniel Coker acts as Agent. He visits 
Sierra Leone. Consults Governor McCarthy. Arrival of the John Adams. 
Captain Wadsworth. His kind and efficient assistance. His Letter to 



CONTENTS. VU 

Ellas B. Caldwell. Captain Trenchard's Letter to the Secretary of the 
Navy. Coker removes the people and stores to Sierra Leone. Arrival of 
Messrs. E. Bacon and Winn, Government Agents, and the Society's Agents, 
Messrs, Andrus and Wiltberger. Anniversary Meeting of the Society 
1 821. Case of the Schooner Pluttsburg 128 

CHAPTER IX. 

THE COLONY UNDER MESSRS. E, BACON AND ANDRUS. 

Extracts from Bacon's Journal. The Voyage. Arrival at Sierra Leone. 
Health of the Emigrants. Messrs. Bacon and Andrus explore the Coast. 
Their Journal. Their Return. Arrival of the Alligator. Death of Mr. 
Andrus, and Mr. and Mrs. Winn. Resolutions of the Society 134 

CHAPTER X. 

LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES RESPECTING THE SLAVE TRADE. 

Laws prohibiting the Slave Trade. Law of the state of Georgia and action 
under it. Mr. Mead's visit to Georgia and his success. Supplementary 
Act of Congress. President Monroe appoints Agents to go to Africa. 
Auxiliaries. Reputation of the Society abroad. Interesting Account of 
Recaptured Africans 157 

CHAPTER XI. 

AGENCY OF DR. AYRES, AND PURCHASE OF CAPE MESUEADO BY 
HIM AND CAPTAIN R. F. STOCKTON. 

Dr. Ayres offers himself to the Board. Sails in the Siiark. Arrives in Africa. 
Purchase of Cape Mesurado in conjunction with Captain R. F. Stock- 
ton. Agreement for the purchase of the land. Removal of tlie Colonists 
from Foura Bay to Cape Mesurado. Large meeting of tlie Kings, and 
their consent that the Colonists should remain. Dr. Ayres proposes to 
return to America. Appoints a Superintendent, and sails June 7th, 1822. . 167 

CHAPTER XII. 

AGENCY OF MR. JEHUDI ASHMUN. 

Perilous condition of the Colony. Providential arrival of Mr, Ashmun. Re- 
captured Africans from Georgia. State of the Colony. Sickness. Ashmun 
makes preparation for tlic defence of the Colony. Attack of the Natives. 
Battle. Dispersion of the enemy. Second attack. Again repulsed. Peace 
restored, with the assistance of Major Laing 177 

CHAPTER XIII. 

THE COLONY UNDER MR. ASHMUN. 

Death of Midshipman Gordon. Famine threatened. Arrival of the Cyane. 
Noble conduct of Captain Spencer. Communication of Mr. Seaton. Mr. 



Vlll CONTENTS. 

Ashmun's despatch. Dr, Ayres returns as Principal Agent. Condition 

of the Colony. Description of Cape Mesurado 198 



CHAPTER XIV. 

ADMINISTRATION OF ASHMUN CONTINUED. 

Mr. Ashmun's relations to the Board. Just resentment. He still takes 
charge of the Colony. Efficient labours. Arrival of the Cyrus with Emi- 
grants. Great distress of the Colony. Gurley's visit to Africa, vpith 
despatches from the Board. He approves of Ashmun's conduct. His 
Return. Despatches from Ashmun 207 



CHAPTER XV. 

ashmun's ADMINISTRATION CONTINUED. 

Arrival of the brig Hunter. Settlement on tlie St. Paul's. Action of the 
Board. State of the Colony. Expeditions. Great mortality among the 
Emigrants. Arrival of recaptured Africans. Mr. Ashmun's healtli. Pur- 
chase of territory. Ashmun sails for the United States. His death at New 
Haven 219 



CHAPTER XVI. 

LOTT CAREY MISSIONS IN AND NEAR THE COLONY. 

Colony left in charge of Lott Carey — his Life — his Letters to the Board — his 
sudden Death. Death of Dr. Thornton. Dr. Randall appointed Agent, 
and sails in the ship Harriet with one hundred and sixty Emigrants 241 



CHAPTER XVII. 

Randall's administration. 

Dr, Randall arrives at Monrovia. His opinion as to the state of the Colony. 
He penetrates into the interior. King Boatswain's Town. Coloniza- 
tion in Hayti by the Society of Friends. Failure of the scheme. Gerrit 
Smith's plan for raising funds. Subscription to the plan — note. Commu- 
nication from Dr. Randall, containing an Account of his Exploring Tour. 
His Death. Notice of his Life. Resolutions of the Board 257 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

operations AT HOME. 

Annual Meeting 1827. Speeches of Messrs. Clay and Mercer. Anniversary 
of 1828. General Harper's Speech. Remarks of Messrs. Latrobe, Har- 
rison, Key, Custis. Expedition in the ship Doris. Decree of the Su- 



CONTENTS. IX 

preme Court of the United States concerning- recaptured Africans. Further 
Expeditions. Prosperity of the Society. Death of Judge Washington. 
Visit of Swiss Missionaries to tliis country on their way to Africa. Mr. 
Russwurm sails. Visit of two Kroomen to the United States. Dr. Mechlin 
appointed Agent. Constitution of the Commonwealth. Ashmun's Digest 
of Laws. Address from the People of Monrovia to the Coloured People of 
the United States. Formation of Auxiliary Societies 273 



CHAPTER XIX. 

THE COLONY UNDER DR. MECHLIN, 1830. 

Mr. Hodgson's Letter to the Board. Annual Meeting of the Society. Reso- 
lutions of the Board. Mr. Clay's Speech. Increased opposition to the 
cause of Colonization. Formation of the African Education Society. Dr. 
Mechlin's Report on the State of the Colony. Description of Caldwell. 
Printing press established in Monrovia. Sailing of the Montgomery. 
Return of Dr. Mechlin. Death of William Henry Fitzhugh. Statements 
of Mr. Devany concerning the Colony. Extracts from Captain Sherman's 
Letter. Mr. Erskinc goes to Africa. His death 295 



CHAPTER XX. 

AFRICAN EDUCATION EVENTS IN THE UNITED STATES. 

Death of Dr. Anderson. Obituary notice. Sailing of the Caroline. Mr. 
Robert S. Finley, Agent at Home. Action of the Board on Education. In- 
■^itution of the African School Society at Hartford. Unfavourable feeling 
in the Southern States. Fourteenth Annual Meeting of the Society. Dr. 
Mechlin's despatch. His Letter to Elliott Cresson. Resolutions of the 
Maryland Legislature. Letter of Captain Woodside. Movement in Ken- 
tucky. Captain Kennedy's Letter. Southampton Insurrection. Sailing 
of vessels to Africa. Captain Weaver's Letter 345 



CHAPTER XXI. 

EVENTS OF 1832. 

Fifteenth Annual Meeting. Mr. Madison's Letter. Judge Marshall's Letter. 
Arrival of the Criterion at Monrovia. Captain Abel's Letter. Proceedings 
in the Virginia Legislature. Resolutions in Congress. Mr. Cresson's 
services in England. State of the Colony. Disturbance among the Na- 
tives. Attack of the Colonists. Their victory, and its effects upon the 
Natives. Letter of Dr. Mechlin. Situation of the recaptured Africans. 
Simpson and Moore visit the Colony, and their Report. Hannah Kilham. 
Mr. Clarkson's view of Colonization. Opposition to the Colonization cause. 
Garrison's attack. Action of the Abolitionists. The Liberator. Captain 
Crowell's Letter 364 



X CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXII. 

AFFAIRS OF THE COLONY IN 1833. 

Dr. Hodgkins' Letter. Anniversary Meeting. Accession of Territory. Health 
of the Colony — its Comroerce and Education. Sailing of Mr. Pinney as 
Missionary. Embarrassment of the Society. Action of the Maryland 
Legislature. Vindication of the Society. Bequests. Jacob W. Prout. 
Despatches on the state of the Colony. Abandonment of friends. Letter 
from Mr. Pinney 386 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

FORMATION OF THE MARYLAND SOCIETY. 

Reasons for their separate action. Determine to form a separate Colony. 
Departure of their first Expedition in the brig Ann, under the charge of 
Dr. James Hall. Dr. Hall's Treaty with the Natives. Favourable state of 
the Emigrants. Further Expeditions. Arrival of Native Africans in Bal- 
timore. Communication from Dr. Hall. Arrival in Africa of Mr. and 
Mrs. Wilson as Missionaries. Dr. Hall's firmness with the Natives. Mr. 
Holmes sent out to relieve Dr. Hall. Letter of Dr. Hall, note. His despatch, 405 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

CAPE PALMAS. 

Mrs. Wilson's Letter. Her devotion to the cause. Sickness of the Missiona- 
ries. Flourishing state of the Colony. Treaty with the Natives. Mr. 
Burt's Letter. State of the currency. Sailing of the Financier, and 
Niobe. John B. Russwurm appointed Agent. Letter of Dr. Hall 423 

CHAPTER XXV. 

AFFAIRS AT HOME. 

Seventeenth Annual Meeting. Gerrit Smith's speech. His conversion to 
Abolitionism. Death of Dr. Balch, Expeditions sent out in the Ajax, 
America, Jupiter, and Argus. Mortality among the Emigrants. Bassa 
Cove purchased by Dr. Mechlin. Agriculture and Education. Messrs. 
Cox and Pinney. British Emancipation. Abolition in the United States. 
Mr. Thompson 433 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

COLONIZATION SOCIETIES OF PENNSYLVANIA AND NEW YORK. 

Organization of the Pennsylvania Society. Dr. Hawes' slaves. Messrs. Cres- 
son and Naylor's commission — Proceed to Virginia — Their Report. Re- 



CONTENTS. XI 

port concerning the first Expedition. Mr. Tyson's Oration. Extracts from 
Phrenological Journal of Edinburgh. Formation of the New York Coloni- 
zation Society. Union of tlie two for the establishment of a Colony. Sailing 
of Dr. Skinner in the Jupiter. Resolutions of the New York Colonization 
Society. Annual Meeting of the New York Society. George Thompson. 
Testimonies. Letter of Captain Nicholson — Of Captain Sherman— Of 
Captain Abels— Of Simpson and Moore — Of Captain Voorhees 445 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

AGENCY OF THE REV. J. B. PINNEY. 

Arrival of the Jupiter. Mr. Finney's reception. Letter of Captain Voorhees. 
Population of the Colony. Difficulties at home. Exertions to remove the 
debt. Revision of the Laws. Situation of the new Emigrants. Descrip- 
tion of the Bendoo country. State of the Colony on Mr. Finney's arrival. 
His successful labours. " Half-way farms." Moral and Religious state of 
the Colony. Arrival of Dr. Skinner. Report of Mr. Jones. State of Edu- 
cation. Resignation of Mr. Pinney 472 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

AGENCY OF DR. E. SKINNER, 1835. 

Character of Dr. Skinner. He enters upon the duties of his office. Pros- 
perous condition of the Colony. Simpson and Moore. Sailing of the 
Rover. Testimonies in favour of the Colony. Schools. Cedar Park 
Liberian Association. Native Wars, Religion in the Colony 487 

CHAPTER XXIX. 

COLONIZATION, AND THE COLONY IN 1836. 

Sailing of the Luna. Departure of the Swlfl. Second passage of the Luna. 
McElroy's Letter. Extracts from Miss Moore's Letter, State of the 
Colony. Letter of Mr. Buchanan. Ynamby's Palaver. Maryland Colony. 
Simleh Balla. Extracts from Rockwell's Sketches 502 



CHAPTER XXX. 

VICE-AGENCY OF MR. A. D. WILLIAMS, 1837. 

Mr. Clay appointed President of the American Colonization Society. Aux- 
iliary Societies. Charter of the Society. Account of Moro. Missionary 
Operations. Meeting in Liberia in favour of Colonization. Dr. Bacon's 
Letter. State Societies. Governor Matthias' Letter. Influence of the 
Colony upon the Natives. Testimonies in favour of the Colony. Mr, 
Hutton's Letter. Captain Nicholson's Letter. Simleh Balla 520 



Xn CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXXr. 

THE COLONY IN 1838. 

Mr, Garland's Speech. Embarrassments of the Society. Samuel Wilkin- 
son — his project. Elliott Cresson. Auxiliary Societies. Situation of Emi- 
grants. Lewis Sherridan. Expeditions. Greenville — Virginia State Society. 
Letter of Lieutenant-Governor Williams. Difficulty with the Natives. 
Missionary Operations. Dr. Taylor's Letter. Statement of Mr. Brown. 
Dr. Goheen's Letter. Affairs of the Colony. Thomas Buchanan appointed 
Governor 546 



CHAPTER XXXH. 

COMMONWEALTH OF LIBERIA UNDER GOVERNOR BUCHANAN. 

State of the Colony. Health of Governor Buchanan. His Letter. Attack 
upon the Baracoons. Battle and Capture. Captain Bell's Letter 570 

CHAPTER XXXHI. 

WARS WITH THE NATIVES. 

Attack of Gatoomba. Governor Buchanan's Measures of Defence. His 
Negotiation. Second Attack. Buchanan's march against Gatoomba's 
town. Finney's Letter. Embargo Laid. Sailing of the Saluda. Diffi- 
culty respecting Slavers. Arrival of the Boxer and Grampus. War near 
Bassa Cove. Capture of New Cesters by Captain Denman. Captain Bell's 
Letter. State of the Colony 581 



CHAPTER XXXIV. 

GOVERNOR Buchanan's administration, 1841. 

Arrival of the Cyane. Commander Latimer's Letter. Union of the Ameri- 
can Colonization Society and the Mississippi State Colonization Society. 
Niger Expedition. Expeditions— R. Groning, Union, Regulus, Saluda. 
Death of Governor Buchanan. Dr. Day's Letter « 596 



INTEODUCTION 



The best method of disposing of the free people of 
colour, so as to promote the highest interests both of 
them and the citizens of this country, among whom 
they dwell, is a subject of momentous consequence, 
concerning which very different opinions have been 
entertained. The idea of providing a place for them on 
the coast of Africa, met the views of a large number of 
the most intelligent and benevolent men in this country ; 
and the apparent difficulty, if not impracticability, of 
removing so great a number of persons to such a dis- 
tance, furnished, for a long time, the only objection to 
the enterprise. The obstacles were indeed very formi- 
dable, and would have discouraged the efforts of any 
men not animated by a noble enthusiasm in the cause 
of humanity. The first difficulty was to obtain a ter- 
ritory on the coast of Africa — a country possessed by 
numerous savage tribes, all deeply engaged in the slave 
trade, and jealous of every body, and every measure, 
which might possibly interfere with this nefarious traffic. 
The legislature of the state of Virginia had made an 
effort, through the President of the United States, to 
acquire such a territory, but without success. How 
then could it be expected, that a voluntary association, 
1 



INTRODUCTION. 



without funds, and without the aid of civil government, 
would be able to plant a colony on the shores of a con- 
tinent more than three thousand miles distant? But 
great as were the obstacles in the way of success in this 
enterprise, they have been overcome. Liberia, not 
only exists, but is in a flourishing condition. Perhaps 
no colony has ever existed where so much that is calcu- 
lated to render society respectable and happy, was to be 
found. An undoubted right to a territory of considera- 
ble extent has been secured, by fair purchase, from the 
native kings and chiefs. The country is uncommonly 
beautiful and fertile, and to the natives, or those who 
are acclimated, as healthy as any country in the world. 
The people of the colony live in comfortable houses, 
and are plentifully supplied with food, with moderate 
labour. The country is also well situated for commerce, 
by attention to which, a number of persons have ac- 
quired a handsome property, and live in as much ele- 
gance and affluence as the majority of merchants in 
this country. The privileges and security of a regular 
republican government are fully enjoyed. The people 
choose their own representatives, and have a legislature 
and judiciary of their own choice, and their own colour ; 
the only officer appointed by the board of managers in 
this country is the governor ; and for some years, this 
office has been filled, both at Monrovia, and Cape Pal- 
mas, by coloured men. From all accounts, there is as 
much good order, morality, and subjection to law, in 
Liberia, as in any other country; and the evidence of 
it is, the peaceful state of society, and the small num- 
ber of convictions for transgression of the laws. 

The community of Liberia is also distinguished for 



INTRODUCTION. 



its schools and religious privileges. Nearly all the 
children of the colony have the opportunity of attend- 
ing scliool ; and almost the whole population are in the 
habit of regular attendance on public ^\'orship, on the 
Sabbath ; and we do not know any community upon 
earth, where so great a proportion of the people are 
serious professors of religion. All intelligent persons 
who have visited the country, however strong their pre- 
judices against the colony before, have come away very 
favourably impressed in regard to its prosperous condi- 
tion ; and all visiters have concurred in declaring, that 
the people appeared, almost universally, to be contented 
with their condition, and to entertain no wish to return 
to this country. The problem has been fairly solved, 
that the coloured race are as capable of improvement as 
the whites, and in every department of government, 
they have manifested sound sense and discretion, equal 
to what could have been expected from people of any 
other nation, with no greater advantages of education, 
than they have enjoyed. Indeed, we have not seen 
any state papers which indicate a sounder judgment, 
and more just discernment of the true interests of the 
colony, than those of Governor Roberts. Even in his 
correspondence with officers of the British navy, on 
points of international law, he appears to great advan- 
taofe; and we understand, that the administration of 
Governor Russwurm has given such entire satisfaction 
to the Maryland Colonization Board, that they are ex- 
tremely unwilling that he should resign his office. 

Two things, in relation to the native Africans, deserve 
special attention ; the first is, that several hundred na- 
tives recaptured from slave ships, have been settled in 



INTRODUCTION. 



the colony, in a village by tliemselves, and are now 
among the most orderly and industrious of the citizens, 
having, for the most part, embraced Christianity, and 
possessing schools and churches, where young and old 
attend with as much order and solemnity as in any 
civilized country. 

The other is, that many thousands of the natives 
choose to reside within the territory of Liberia, for the 
sake of security and peace, which they there enjoy; and 
willingly obey the laws of the colony. 

And although hostile and formidable attacks were 
made on the colonists, when they were few in number, 
so that their preservation must be ascribed to the re- 
markable interposition of Providence — ^yet, now, they 
are free from all apprehension of danger, and are at 
peace with all the surrounding tribes. And so high 
is the opinion entertained of the government of the 
colony, that frequently, the disputes among the neigh- 
bouring tribes are referred to them for arbitration. 

The influence of the colony in putting an end to the 
slave trade, has been confessedly great. The coast now 
possessed by the colony, had long been famous for this 
inhuman traffic ; but now along a coast of three hun- 
dred miles, there is not more than one or two places, 
where any slaver dares enter. It may truly be said, 
that more has been done by the establishment of this 
little republic of freemen, to suppress the slave trade, 
than by the combined operations of both the British 
and American navies. Reflecting men, both in Great 
Britain and in this country, seem now to be convinced, 
that the only eifectual method of putting an end to the 
slave trade is to plant colonies along the coast, and to 



INTRODUCTION. 



make trading and agricultural establishments in every 
accessible part of the interior. 

Whether this colony was commenced in wisdom, or 
imprudently, it now exists, and cannot be abandoned. 
There it stands on the savage coast of Africa, and is 
likely to exist for a long time to come. Hitherto, no ill 
consequence has followed from the prosecution of the 
scheme of colonization; except the sacrifice of a number 
of valuable lives on a coast peculiarly unfavourable to 
the constitution of white men. It has provided a home 
for some thousands of coloured people, a large portion 
of whom exchanged slavery for freedom, and a degraded 
condition in society for one of independence and dignity. 
Who can doubt that the colonists of Liberia are in a 
far more eligible state, than if they had remained in 
this country? And who can tell the beneficial influence 
which they may hereafter exert on the native inhabi- 
tants of the dark continent of Africa ? This little free 
republic may, for aught we know, be the germ of a 
great and flourishing empire. Look back three hun- 
dred years, and you will see a few feeble colonies of 
Europeans, struggling with the most formidable diffi- 
culties, and often on the very verge of extinction, and 
now behold these small colonies grown to be one of the 
most powerful nations upon earth ; extending its com- 
merce to every quarter of the habitable globe; produc- 
ing by agriculture, in rich abundance, all the articles 
most necessary for man's subsistence; and manufac- 
turing clothing far more than is needed by its tw^enty 
million of inhabitants. Let it be considered, that the 
same benignant Providence which watched over this 
rising country, and raised it to its present eminence 
1* 



10 INTRODUCTION. 

amonor the nations of the earth, has also smiled on the 
infant republic of Liberia. The indications of Divine 
favour toward this colony have been most marked, and 
some of them truly extraordinary, as will most fully 
appear, in the events recorded in the following history. 

The principal difficulties have been encountered and 
overcome. A work has been achieved, by a few inde- 
fatigable and philanthropic men, which, to posterity, 
will, we doubt not, appear the most interesting and re- 
markable event of the first part of tlie nineteenth cen- 
tury. No such work was ever before accomplished by 
means so inadequate. Unless Providence had signally 
prospered the enterprise, the object could never have 
been realized. It is to us, who have with interest 
marked every disaster, and every step of the progress, 
a most astonishing object of contemplation, that a 
private association, in a little more than twenty years, 
should, by voluntary contributions, without the aid of 
the general government, have been able to establish a 
well ordered and happy republic on the desert shores of 
Africa, at the distance of three or four thousand miles! 
This is, indeed, a thing which would scarcely be cre- 
dited, if its truth depended on common historical testi- 
mony. 

The idea of removing all the coloured population of 
this country, has been ridiculed as fanciful and imprac- 
ticable. But however short the enterprise may come of 
accomplishing all that would be desirable, in regard to 
this unhappy race, yet let it be kept in mind, that what- 
ever may be accomplished, is so much clear gain ; gain 
to those who go, by greatly meliorating their condition ; 
gain to those who stay, by diminishing their number ; 



INTRODUCTION. 11 

gain to the white population who desire to be exempt 
from this class of people, and prospectively an incon- 
ceivable gain to Africa, by kindling on her borders the 
lights of Christianity, civilization, and useful science. 
If not another individual should be added to the colony 
from this country, Liberia may still flourish and in- 
crease, and become a rich blessing to benighted Africa. 
It should be remembered, however, that the American 
Colonization Society never proposed such a thing, as 
the object of its institution, as the removal to Africa of 
the whole coloured population of this country. Their 
plan embraced no others than free people; they careful- 
ly avoided any interference with those held in bondage 
by the laws of the States where they reside. The only 
influence which the Colonization scheme can have on 
slavery is indirect: by furnishing a comfortable asylum 
for such as are free. Many conscientious and benevo- 
lent slaveholders, who were restrained from emancipat- 
ing their slaves, from the consideration that there was 
no place to which they could be advantageously sent, 
upon seeing that the colony in Africa furnished such 
an asylum as they wished, have been induced to liberate 
their slaves, and in a number of instances, to furnish 
them with every thing necessary for the voyage, and in 
some cases, besides giving them an outfit, have gene- 
rously paid their passage. The Colonization Society, 
therefore, while it never proposed emancipation as its 
object, has done more incidentally, to promote emanci- 
pation, than all the Abolition societies in the country. 
Indeed, these have, as far as is known to us, redeemed 
no slaves from bondage, but without intending it, have, 
by the course which they have pursued, riveted the 



12 INTRODUCTION. 

chains which confine the slaves more closely than ever. 
No one has a right to complain on account of the eman- 
cipation of slaves, by the will and free consent of their 
owners. The abolitionists if sincere in their professions, 
ouo'ht to rejoice in every instance of the kind ; and the 
advocates of slavery, have no right to complain, for the 
fewer the number left, the more valuable their services. 
But if Liberia should continue to flourish and increase, 
it is not so improbable as many suppose, that the greater 
part of the African race, now in this country, will in the 
inscrutable dispensations of Providence, be restored to 
the country of their fathers. Why so many of this un- 
happy race were ever permitted to be brought to Ame- 
rica, begins now to appear. They were sent here by a 
benignant Providence overruling the wicked passions 
of avaricious men, that they might be christianized and 
civilized, and might carry back to their benighted coun- 
trymen, the principles of religion, freedom, and repre- 
sentative government. 

But whether these hopes shall ever be realized or not, 
much good for Africa may be effected by the Coloniza- 
tion enterprise, much good has already been effected, 
and the beneficial results of the colony will not stop here. 
Every thing is in progress ; and the time, even the set 
time to favour this long benighted land, is drawing near. 
No instrumentality is so likely to be effectual to bring 
liorht and civilization to her tribes, as the return of her 
own sons. 

If the pagans of Africa are ever converted, as we 
believe they will be, it must be by the preaching of 
the gospel, and in order to this, missionaries must be 
sent; and it is manifest, that the existence of Christian 



INTRODUCTION. 13 

colonies in that country, will furnish a degree of safety 
to preachers of the gospel which they could not other- 
wise enjoy; and afford facilities for introducing the 
gospel into the interior, which in no other way could 
be had. Already these little settlements on the coast of 
Africa, have become fields for missionary labour; for the 
natives continue to dwell in the territory ceded to the 
colony, and while they are under the civil jurisdiction 
of its government, they retain their own towns and 
personal property. It is true, that at Cape Palmas, 
some misunderstanding took place between the govern- 
ment and the missionaries of the American Board, but 
this furnishes no argument against the utility of colo- 
nies as auxiliaries to missions. The occasion of this 
difference may have been owing to undue rigour in 
administering the laws, or it may have been owing to 
unreasonable demands and expectations on the part of 
the missionaries; on this subject we wish to express no 
opinion ; but surely this difference of opinion between 
the officers of government and the missionaries, does 
not in the least prove that the existence of colonies may 
not be highly beneficial to the operations of missionaries 
among the heathen. Other missionaries at this same 
place have found the vicinity of the colony important; 
and in one instance, a worthy missionary was exposed to 
imminent danger from the violence of the savages, from 
which he was delivered by the seasonable arrival of one 
of our vessels of war; but had there been no colony 
there, no such relief would have been experienced. 
Missionaries greatly need the aid and protection of civil 
authority, as appears by the present unhappy condition 
of the islands in the Pacific. All that can reasonably 



14 INTRODUCTION. 

be inferred from the unpleasant disagreement alluded 
to, is, that missionaries should be very careful to submit 
to the laws and obey the orders which may be found 
necessary for the welfare of the colonies where they 
reside, and gratefully to accept the protection and facili- 
ties for introducing the gospel, afforded by the colonies. 
And Christian rulers in these colonies, should do every 
thing in their power to aid the missionaries in their 
arduous work of propagating the gospel among the 
surrounding pagan tribes. But it is not an unfounded 
expectation, that the colonists themselves will establish 
missions among the heathen in their vicinity, for they 
have already commenced the work. Both the Methodist 
and Baptist denominations have engaged in this work, 
and not without encouraging success. Indeed, it is our 
belief, that this great work of evangelizing Africa, will 
be accomplished, not so much by missionaries sent from 
abroad, as by the zeal and Christian enterprise of the 
various colonies which from time to time will be planted 
along the whole w^estern coast of Africa. Some very 
interesting facts have recently occurred, in relation to 
this subject, in the colony of Sierra Leone. A number 
of recaptured Africans from countries in the interior, 
after being instructed in the doctrines of Christianity, 
were desirous of revisiting their native land ; and ac- 
cordingly were furnished with the means of returning 
to their friends. The communications of these con- 
verted Africans, prepared the way for a visit from mis- 
sionaries, sent out from Sierra Leone, wdio have been 
cordially received by the king of a region of which little 
was heretofore known; and there is now a pleasing 
prospect of propagating the gospel in this benighted 



INTRODUCTION. 



15 



reo-ion. And it is a well ascertained fact, that some of 
the African nations, among the most cruel that ever 
lived upon earth, appear now disposed to receive mis- 
sionaries, and pay attention to the gospel. Were it not 
that the climate of Africa is so inimical to the constitu- 
tion of the white man, there is not a country on the 
globe, where there is stronger encouragement to mis- 
sionary efforts. But it seems the ordination of Heaven, 
that Africa shall be regenerated by the instrumentality 
of her own sons, chiefly. And it is an interesting fact, 
that already from among the emancipated slaves of the 
West Indies, missionaries have gone, or are preparing 
to go to Africa, to carry the glorious gospel to their 
benighted countrymen. This view of the effect of the 
Colonization scheme, is to our minds the most animating 
of all others. The redemption of Africa from the cruel 
tyranny of the prince of darkness, and from the most 
miserable and degrading bondage of the crudest super- 
stition upon earth, is the object on which our hopes are 
fixed ; and we do believe from the signs of the times, 
that the period is not far distant, when " Ethiopia shall 
stretch out her hands unto God," and we confidently 
expect, that the American Colonization scheme will act 
an important part in achieving this great work. 

A most unreasonable opinion was hastily taken up by 
Abolitionists, founded on some unguarded expressions of 
Southern men, at the first public meeting to form a 
Colonization society at Washington, that one object, or 
rather tendency of the institution was, to render the 
property in slaves more valuable, by removing from 
among them the free people of colour, by whom they 
were greatly corrupted. These declarations of indivi- 



16 INTRODUCTION. 

dual slaveholders, perfectly innocent when properly 
understood, were attributed to the society, and tortured 
into a meaning as foreign from the views of Coloniza- 
tionists, as they are from those of Abolitionists. As has 
been repeatedly said, the originators and founders of 
this society, w^hatever they might think of slavery, de- 
termined to engage in a benevolent enterprise, which 
should aim to accomplish a great good, without meddling 
with a subject so exciting, and so difficult to be disposed 
of, as that of American slavery. They did not even sup- 
pose that the scheme which they intended to prosecute, 
would either stand in the w^ay of any efforts to bring 
about emancipation, or that it would be a substitute for 
schemes of this kind. They did, indeed, foresee that, 
if the enterprise should prove successful, and a well 
ordered colony should be established in Africa, it would 
enable those slaveholders, who, from w^hatever motive, 
wished to get clear of their slaves, to send them to an 
asylum, where they would have every opportunity of 
enjoying the privileges of freemen. But this is in perfect 
harmony with the laws of most, if not all tKe slavehold- 
ing States, which permit every man who chooses, to libe- 
rate his slaves, provided he send them out of the State. 
But how the Colonization scheme should have any 
tendency to perpetuate slavery, is utterly inconceivable. 
For, though it interfere not with the existing relations 
between master and servant, as established by law; yet 
the more slaves are emancipated, the greater w^ork is 
before them, and the greater the need of some plan by 
which they might be removed. And so far from tending 
to perpetuate slavery, if all the slaves in the country 
were now emancipated, the need of such a scheme 



INTRODUCTION. 17 

would be ten times more urgent than it is at present; 
because there would be ten times as many persons 
thrown into a helpless, degraded state, without the 
means of comfortable subsistence. The Abolitionists, 
therefore, instead of setting themselves in opposition to 
this scheme, ought to have hailed it as one calculated to 
provide a comfortable residence for all whose emancipa- 
tion they might be able to effect, j Two races of men, H 
nearly equal in numbers, but differing as much as the 
whites and blacks, cannot form one harmonious society 
in any other way than by amalgamation; but the whites 
and blacks, in this country, by no human efforts, could 
be amalgamated into one homogeneous mass in a thou- 
sand years; and during this long period, the state of 
society would be perpetually disturbed by many con- 
tending factions. Either the whites must remove and 
give up the country to the coloured people, or the 
coloured people must be removed ; otherwise the latter 
must remain in subjection to the former. And the ques- 
tion for the philanthropist to decide is, whether the rela- 
tion of master and servant as now existing, or a state of 
degradation, such as the free people of colour are now 
labouring under, be the most eligible. In the former 
case, the weak and poor have a patron and protector, 
and a kind feeling is generated between the master and 
servant, where they are disposed to perform, respectively, 
their relative duties; but, in the other case, the poor 
coloured race are mere outcasts from society; and no 
feeling of kindness, but only of contempt and dislike, is 
generally entertained towards them by the whites, be- 
cause they are everywhere considered, with few excep- 
tions, bad members of society. And their condition in 
2 



18 INTRODUCTION. 

the free States is not better than in the slave States, but 
worse. It does appear, therefore, that we cannot benefit 
the slaves by obtaining liberty for them in this coun- 
try; and that liberty which brings with it no benefit, 
but an increase of misery, is a poor boon. It does ap- 
pear to me — and I have for a long time most earnestly 
considered the subject — that we can confer a real benefit 
on the African race in no other way than by separating 
them from the whites, and removing them to the country 
of their fathers, which is still congenial to their constitu- 
tion. There are thousands of slaveholders who would 
give up their slaves, if they were fully satisfied that 
Liberia would be permanently a safe and comfortable 
abode for them. The attention of many people of the 
South is now directed intensely towards this rising 
colony; and more, many are now educating their 
younger slaves, with some view to a future residence 
in that land of promise. And the noble example of 
McDonogh will be followed substantially by many. 

In the vast continent of Africa, there are extensive 
regions which lie uncultivated. It is for the benefit of 
the human race that men should not be crowded to- 
gether in dense masses, while so many countries, natu- 
rally fertile, are inhabited only by wild beasts, or are 
roamed over by a few miserable savages. Large cities 
are justly termed, by a sagacious politician, " great 
sores" on the body politic. Even in our largest cities, 
which are comparatively of modern origin, one-fifth of 
the population, so far from adding to the strength or 
riches of the community, hang as a dead weight upon 
the industrious and useful inhabitants. How much 
better would it be, to have a large portion of these 



INTRODUCTION. 19 

settled on the fresh soil of our extensive territories! 
America, however, is in a fair wa}^ of having all her 
valuable lands inhabited and cultivated. The discovery 
of this continent, and its colonization by Europeans, 
has been one of the most important events which has 
occurred for centuries. Millions have found an asylum 
and a comfortable home here, who, with their posterity, 
w^ould have been poor and miserable in their native 
countries. But who shall people the wild regions of 
Africa? Undoubtedly it is the will of the great Parent 
of the human mce, that this wide continent should be 
possessed and cultivated by mankind. But Africa is 
not the country for white men. Europeans cannot 
colonize these regions, the climate is so deleterious to 
their constitution : and the same is true of Americans. 
If ever Africa is settled and occupied, it must be by 
her sons, scattered over the face of this western w^orld. 
For although generations have passed away since the 
forefathers of the present race of coloured people were 
dragged from their native land, yet it is found by ex- 
perience, that Africa is a climate adapted to the consti- 
tution of the coloured men of this continent. As far 
as experience has been had, no people are more exempt 
from disease, after the acclimating fever has been passed 
throuo-h, than the inhabitants of Liberia. It seems 
plainly, therefore, to be the duty and the interest of the 
coloured race in this country, w4iere every thing is so 
unfavourable to their rising to their proper level in 
society, to turn their eyes to Africa, where there is a 
free and happy republic, composed and governed en- 
tirely by men of their own colour; and where every 
honest citizen feels that he stands upon an equality 



20 INTRODUCTION. 

with any other man in the world. And it behoves 
those who industriously sow^ prejudices against Coloni- 
zation, in the minds of the free people of colour, to 
consider what injury they may be inflicting on them 
and their posterity. Let them either propose some 
method by which these degraded and trodden down 
people may be rendered more comfortable and respect- 
able here, or let them not throw obstacles in the way of 
their emigration to a country where they might have the 
opportunity of enjoying the real blessings of freedom. 
It is in vain to declaim about the prejudice of colour ; 
however unreasonable, it will long continue to exist, 
and will prove an effectual bar to the possession and en- 
joyment of the same privileges and advantages which 
the white population enjoy. If I were a coloured man, 
I would not hesitate a moment to relinquish a country 
where a black skin and the lowest degree of degrada- 
tion are so identified, that scarcely any manifestation of 
talent, or course of good conduct, can entirely overcome 
the prejudice which exists; and which is as strong, if 
not stronger, in the free, than in the slaveholding States : 
and I would use every exertion to reach a land, where 
it is no crime, and no dishonour, to appear in a coloured 
skin — a country where no white superiors exist to look 
dow^i with contempt upon the coloured race; but where 
they are the lords of the soil, and the rulers of the 
nation. I cannot but admire the honest ambition and 
noble daring of the first emigrants from this country to 
Africa. Then, no Liberia existed. The Society did 
not own one foot of ground on that continent, and it 
was extremely doubtful whether they would be able to 
obtain any territory for a colony. Yet, these lion-hearted 



INTRODUCTION. 21 

men, resolved to run every risk ; took, as it were, their 
lives in their hands. They went out, like Abraham, 
not knowing whither they went, or what destiny awaited 
them. And the event has proved, that they were called 
by the Providence of God, to engage in this hazardous 
enterprise. And I cannot but feel pity for the grovel- 
ing views of many coloured men, now residing in a 
'State of degradation, in this country, who, in Liberia, 
might rise to wealth and independence, and, perhaps, 
to high and honourable office. 

One of the first laws given to man, and which is still 
in full force, was, " Replenish the earth and subdue 
it;" and after the deluge, God signally rebuked the de- 
termination of the people to remain together, by con- 
founding their language, and thus scattering them over 
the face of the earth. The object of the multitude in 
erecting this immense tower is plainly declared to have 
been, " lest they should be scattered abroad on the face 
of the whole earth;" and the object of the Almighty in 
the stupendous miracle, now wrought, by which the 
language of the people was confounded, is distinctly 
declared to have been, " to scatter them abroad upon 
the face of all the earth." It is, therefore, plainly the 
will of God that the human race should not collect in 
dense bodies in some particular parts of the world, while 
larcre tracts of habitable land lie desert and uncultiva- 
ted. The command " to replenish the earth and sub- 
due it," is still in full force. And to what people 
does it equally belong to possess and cultivate the 
extensive and fertile regions of Africa, as to the sons 
of Africa in this country, who need a home, where 
they may enjoy equal privileges with others, and v/here 



22 INTRODUCTION. 

they may be the instruments of diffusmg among the 
barbarous natives the lights of Christianity and civiliza- 
tion ? If ever the negro race are raised from their de- 
graded state of ignorance and vice, in Africa, it will 
probably be by the return of the descendants of that 
race spread over so large a part of this western conti- 
nent, and over the West India Islands. If the wise and 
benevolent plan of civilizing Africa, and putting an end 
to the slave trade, devised by Sir Folsom Buxton, and 
which was attempted to be carried into effect at so great 
expense of life and money, had adopted the principle of 
sending back the emancipated negroes from the British 
colonies in the West India Islands, instead of attempt- 
ing to settle colonies of white Europeans in the delete- 
rious climate of Africa, the object sought, so important 
and desirable, would, in all probability, have been ac- 
complished. And if the colony of Sierra Leone, should 
need to be recruited, it will be found expedient to in- 
vite the most enterprising and best educated of the 
negroes of the West Indies, to emigrate to that country. 
The present difficulties of Liberia, in consequence of 
the ungenerous conduct of certain officers of the British 
navy towards the unoffending colonists, will, it is pre- 
sumed, be of short duration. It would be an indelible 
reproach to the magnanimous government of Great Bri- 
tain, to be the means of destroying or injuring an infant 
republic, just starting into existence, under the most 
favourable auspices. Liberia may be considered as a 
star of promise which twinkles in the dense darkness 
which overshadows the African continent. This com- 
munity may be said, without exaggeration, to be the 
most extraordinary upon earth, when all the circum- 



INTRODUCTION. 23 

stances of its origin and progress are taken into view. 
Providence has evidently and remarkably smiled on 
the enterprise, and, we trust with confidence, wall de- 
fend it against all who may attempt its destruction. 
Let those, then, who oppose the scheme of African Colo- 
nization, beware, lest they be found resisting what God 
approves. As for himself, the writer is as fully per- 
suaded that the plan of colonizing the free people of 
colour in Africa, is wise and benevolent, as he ever was 
of the wisdom and benevolence of any human enter- 
prise. 

ARCHIBALD ALEXANDER, 

Princeton, New Jersey, 

January Qth, 1846. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



CHAPTER I. 

DESCRIPTION OF THE WESTERN COAST OF AFRICA. 

From Sierra Leone to Cape Palmas the bearing of the Coast of 
Africa is south-east. Thence it turns almost due east for more 
than fifteen degrees of longitude, whence it again turns to the 
south-east. 

The general face of the country around Sierra Leone is un- 
commonly beautiful and attractive. It is covered with stately 
and umbrageous trees, among which the elegant palm-tree is 
not the least conspicuous. The soil is various, but is generally 
fruitful, and yields abundantly all the necessaries of life. The 
savannahs are least fruitful and consist chiefly of beds of sand 
or rock. They are usually overflowed in the rainy season, and 
are covered with tall coarse grass, and a few stunted trees. 

Our division of the year into winter and summer, spring and 
autumn, is not applicable to the climate of this country. They 
have but two seasons, the wet and the dry; but the rainy sea- 
son does not occur on all parts of the coast at the same time, 
but seems to move progressively from one place to another. 
A continued, heavy rain of thirty hours, without intermission, 
occurs but seldom, and more frequently twelve hours of heavy 
rain, are succeeded by a day or two of clear and remarkably 
pleasant weather. This part of the year from its coldness, is 
most agreeable to Europeans, and North Americans, but at the 
same time, it is undoubtedly the most unhealthy. The con- 
tinuance of this season is about four months. Its commence- 
ment and termination are marked with tornadoes. These are 
violent gusts of wind, attended with thunder and lightning, 
which come from the east, and are usually accompanied with 
heavy rain. The violence of the wind seldom lasts more than 
3 



26 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

half an hour; but while it continues, the scene is one of the 
most awfully sublime in nature. 

The heat has been observed at Sierra Leone, as high as 103° 
of Fahrenheit, but the mean degree is about 84°; the heat, how- 
ever, is greater in places inland, than on the coast. 

The longest day at Sierra Leone, is nearly twelve hours and 
a half, and the shortest eleven and a half. During the dry sea- 
son, there is a haziness in the atmosphere, which prevents ob- 
jects from being seen at as great a distance as in clear weather. 
The freeness with which perspiration flows, and an almost con- 
stant breeze, seem to mitigate the severity of the heat on this 
coast, so that persons are not sensible of its intensity, but expe- 
rience a refreshing degree of coolness. 

The quickness and luxuriance of vegetation in Western Africa 
is such, that without much exaggeration, the plants may be 
said visibly to grow. As the trees are not despoiled of their 
leaves at once, but have a constant succession, they always 
retain the appearance of summer. 

Agriculture is practised along the whole coast, but is in a 
rude and infant state. About Sierra Leone the rice is thrown 
upon the ground and scratched into the earth with a kind of 
hoe. When the crop is nearly ripe, some children or old people 
are sent to drive away the birds which now appear in amazing 
numbers, and are ever on the watch to commit depredations. 
The harvest, of which there is only one in the year, occurs 
about four months after the time of sowing. The plantations 
are cultivated by the inhabitants of a whole village, in com- 
mon, and the produce divided among the families in proportion 
to their numbers; except that the head man of the village 
claims a larger quantity, as it is his duty to exercise hospitality 
to strangers and others. Along the whole coast from Gambia 
to the Gold Coast, rice constitutes the chief support of the na- 
tives; but they also cultivate plantain, yams, sweet potatoes, 
cassada, &c. A variety of excellent fruits grow on the coast, 
but are little cultivated. Pine apples and oranges are in great 
perfection; and there are also grapes, cocoa-nuts, guavas, 
water-melons, plums, &.c. The palm here, as in some other 
countries, is the most valuable tree, and answers the greatest 
variety of purposes. The leaves furnish an excellent covering 
for houses, and their fibres fishing lines; while their inner bark 
is manufactured into a species of coarse cloth ; and from the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 27 

outer bark of the yonng tree, baskets, mats, &c. are made. 
The fruit also, which is nearly as large as a hen's egg, when 
roasted is esteemed a great delicacy; and the palm-oil is almost 
a necessary of life, as it is used in all dishes, as butter is 
in other countries. The palm-wine is also in high esteem 
among the natives. The diet of the people is very simple, con- 
sisting chiefly of rice and palm-oil, with occasionally a small 
portion of animal food. They have but two meals in a day ; 
the one about ten o'clock in the forenoon, and the other about 
sunset. The nations living near the coast have oxen, sheep, 
and goats ; and of wild animals, deer, buffalo, wild hogs, &c. 
The guinea-fowl is abundant, in a wild state, on the Gambia, 
but not at Sierra Leone. Fish are caught by those on the 
coast, or in rivers ; and in some places, dogs, rats, and mon- 
keys are eaten ; and also a large worm, found on the palm-tree, 
is esteemed a great delicacy. 

The Foolahs and Mandingoes, who are Mohammedans, ab- 
stain from intoxicating liquors, and from such animal food as is 
forbidden in the Koran; but the Pagan nations are very fond of 
ardent spirits, and often drink to excess. All however are ad- 
dicted to the use of tobacco. Their villages are commonly 
situated in places difficult of access, to avoid kidnappers, and 
are commonly built in a circular form, enclosing an area, in the 
midst of which is placed the palaver house, or town hall. The 
houses are so near together that when one takes fire, the whole 
are involved in the conflagration. They are usually of no 
more than one story, and are either of a round or square form. 
They are composed of posts placed at the corners, and sunk a 
foot and a half into the ground, and the intermediate space is 
filled up with smaller posts and branches, and then plastered 
outside with clay. They seldom contain more than one apart- 
ment. By the projection of the roof, which is composed of 
bamboo, there is formed a sort of piazza, where they spend 
much of their time. 

The government of Africa is generally monarchical, but not 
hereditary. Among the Timmanees, and Bulloms, the crown 
remains in the same family, but the head man on whom the 
right of election devolves, may choose a very distant branch of 
the family. By Europeans many are denominated kings, who 
have scarcely the shadow of a title to this dignity. Each town 
or village is usually under the jurisdiction of some person of 



28 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

age, and distinguished for his good sense and knowledge of the 
laws of the country, who is called the head man, to whom it 
appertains to judge in every dispute, and to represent his town 
at any meeting to consult for the general good. The whole 
village are accustomed to treat him with respect, and to yield 
him implicit obedience. 

That part of the coast in the vicinity of Sierra Leone is 
inhabited by three distinct races of people : first, the Moors, 
the descendants of the ancient Numidians, Carthaginians, Ro- 
mans, Vandals, &c. Between the conquest of Africa by the 
Arabians, and the year 698, all the inhabitants received the 
Mohammedan faith. 

The second race are the Arabians, who under the Caliphs, the 
successors of Mohammed, subdued Africa. Some of these 
penetrated as far south as the Gambia, and the Foolahs appear 
to be among their descendants. 

The third race are the Negroes ; they are found from the 
Gambia to the Cape of Good Hope. Many of the countries 
inhabited by the negroes are yet undiscovered, and others little 
known. The Mandingoes inhabit the banks of the Gambia, 
and are a numerous race, who have long since embraced the 
Mohammedan religion. They are very strict in adhering to 
their profession, and solicitous to make proselytes. When the 
Portuguese conquered this country, about 1420, they settled 
colonies in it, and intermarried with the natives— hence the 
Mandingoes will not admit that they belong to the negro race, 
but consider themselves as belonging to the whites. North of 
the Gambia there is a people called Jalofs, extending far into 
the interior. They are remarkable for the glossy blackness of 
their colour, and the beauty of their features. They are also a 
warlike people, and are careful to preserve the firmness and 
hardihood of their character. 

The Foolahs live at a considerable distance from the sea. 
Their capital Teembo is in the latitude of 16° north. They 
are also Mohammedans, and are chiefly employed in agricul- 
ture. The evidence of their being descendants of the Arabians 
is strong, for their colour is about as tawny, and they speak the 
Arabic language, whicli is tauglit in their schools. Their laws 
are also vvritten in the same. Although strangers in the coun- 
try, the Foolahs are the greatest planters in it. They are in- 
dustrious and frugal, and raise more cotton and grain than they 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 29 

need for themselves, which they dispose of to the neighbouring 
nations, by whom they are held in high esteem. They breed 
many cattle and understand the management of them. They 
are also great huntsmen, often going in large companies to hunt 
the elephant and the tiger. Although this is the country of the 
Foolahs, yet, from the travels of Clapperton and Denham it 
appears, that by conquest and by emigration they are extend- 
ing themselves very far into the interior and to the south ; and 
by the Landers they were found upon the river Niger, or 
Quorra, below the part where it was discovered by these 
brothers. 

The Kroomans are a very remarkable race. They are in 
colour a dirty black, and their whole appearance is unsightly. 
They are found along the coast almost every where for fifteen 
hundred miles, and perform all the hard work which is needed in 
loading and unloading vessels, and in other laborious employ- 
ments. They are an honest, industrious, plodding, tractable peo- 
ple, who seem to be formed for mercenary labour, of which they 
never complain. The country where most of them live, is from 
Cape Mount to Cape Palraas. They seem to pay little attention 
to religion, but they are generally Pagans.* The Kroomans, 
although they bear the heat of the climate without inconve- 
nience, and have little sickness among them, are exceedingly 
sensible of the cold at Sierra Leone during the rainy season. 
Their only clothing is a piece of cloth around the body, although 
they are fond of wearing the cast clothes of Europeans. In 
their expenditures they are most rigid economists; a little 
tobacco is the only luxury in which they indulge; in every 
other respect they are contented with bare necessaries. The 
Krooman will go abroad and labour hard for eighteen months or 
two years, when he will return home with his eartiings. Of 
this the head man receives a portion, his mother a present, 
and something for every one of his relations, if it is only a leaf 
of tobacco. All this is done "to get him a good name;" the 
remainder is given to his father to buy him a wife. After a few 
months he sets off again to Sierra Leone or some other part of 

* Although the Kroomans are found every where along the coast from the 
Gambia to Cape Palmas, yet they have a country of their own wiiich lies on the 
coast between Bassa Cove and Cape Palmas. In this country, at Settra Kroo, the 
Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions have a missionary station, where the 
prospects of usefulness are very great, if only missionaries can be found capable 
of bearing the climate. 
3* 



30 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the coast to get more money, and feels proud of being acquainted 
with the "white man's faith," and takes some raw inexperi- 
enced youth to be initiated into the mysteries of the craft, a large 
part of whose earnings he appropriates to himself for his trouble. 
When his coffers are once more replenished, he returns home 
again, and gives the money he has gained to his father to " buy 
him another wife." In this way they will often proceed for a 
dozen years or more, increasing the number of their wives, and 
establishing a great character among their countrymen, but 
applying scarcely a penny of their earnings to their own use. 
Their wealth consists very much in the number of their wives. 
A Krooman being asked what he intended to do with so much 
money as he possessed, answered that he would buy two more 
wives in addition to the two he already had, and then he would 
return to Sierra Leone and get more money. His father, he 
said, had eighteen wives. Their wives, it must be remem- 
bered, are their slaves, to labour not only in the house, but 
in the field. 

In this country the JNIohammedan races have a manifest 
superiority over the Pagan, through their attention to education 
and general improvement, although at the same time they are 
characterized by greater pride and self-importance. They have 
gained proselytes chiefly by their attention to the children, to 
whose education they pay assiduous regard, and in this respect 
have set an example which may safely be followed by Chris- 
tian missionaries. The smaller nations immediately around 
Sierra Leone are the following, viz : 

The Timmanees, who formerly lived at a distance from the 
sea coast, but being of an enterprising and warlike disposition, 
they forced their way down the river Sierra Leone among the 
Bulloms. When this change of residence took place their tra- 
ditions give no information. 

The Bulloms inhabit the north side of the Sierra Leone river, 
as far as the river Scarcies, from the banks of which, however, 
they have been driven by the Timmanees. Northward they 
occupy chiefly the sea coast as far as the river Kissee. 

The Susoos, who have also made aggressions on the Bulloms, 
extend from the river Kissee to the river INIunes, 

But often we find no certain boundary between two neigh- 
bouring nations, for they are often considerably advanced with- 
in each other's territories. They all have languages pecifliar 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN* COLONIZATION. 31 

to themselves, most of which are not merely dialects of the 
same language, but essentially distinct. Although the extent 
of the Gold Coast is not above sixty miles, yet within this space 
seven or eight different languages are spoken. For one hun- 
dred and fifty miles north of Sierra Leone, the Susoo language 
is spoken. It is also understood by a great part of the Foolah 
and Mandingo tribes. 

This language is remarkably simple and easy of acquisition, 
and has been reduced to writing. Like the languages of all 
Barbarian people, those of West Africa are exceedingly figura- 
tive, and those north of Sierra Leone are said to be softer and 
more harmonious to European ears, than those to the south. 
Those of the Timmanees and the BuUoms are considered 
agreeable to the ear, but the Susoo language excels them all in 
softness, and may be termed the Italian of Western Africa. 
The Mandingo, however, is the fashionable language of this 
region, although it is more difficult of acquisition, and abounds 
with guttural sounds. The languages to the south of Sierra 
Leone are generally harsh, and, especially that of the Kissees, is 
excessively disagreeable, not merely on account of its guttural 
sounds, but the singing pronunciation given to it. The frequent 
visits of Europeans on the coast, and their intercourse with the 
natives, has produced a jargon made up of English, French, 
Dutch, Portuguese, &c. 

The Coast of Guinea is divided into the Windward and Lee- 
ward Coast. The first extends from Senegal, in latitude 16° 
north, to Cape Palmas, in 4° 26' north. The leeward reaches 
from Cape Palmas to an indefinite distance to the south and 
east. 

The latitude of Sierra Leone is S° 30' north, and its longitude 
from Greenwich 13° 43' west. The name signifies mountain 
of lions, and was given to the place by the Portuguese. 

The original name of Sierra Leone was Tagrin or Mitomba. 
The river is conspicuous for its magnitude, and is one of the most 
beautiful in Africa. Its entrance is formed by two capes, or 
projecting points ; the one on the north-west which terminates 
the Bullom shore, called Leopard's Island; the other on the 
north-east extremity of Sierra Leone, and is a narrow strip of 
lowland, called Cape Sierra Leone. The breadth of the river 
here is fifteen miles; from this it gradually decreases in width, 
until it reaches St. George's Bay, about six miles above the 



32 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLOMZATIOX. 

entrance, where it does not exceed seven miles, and for twenty 
miles up, the breadth of the river varies very little from this. 
There it ceases to be navigable for large vessels, and is divided 
into Port Logo and Rokelle rivers. " The land forming the 
peninsula of Sierra Leone, when viewed from the sea, or from 
the BuUom shore, appears like a number of hills heaped on 
each other, in a very singular manner. On a nearer approach, 
the face of the country assumes a more beautiful aspect. The 
lower grounds, which are under cultivation, preserve a consid- 
erable degree of verdure through the whole year, which, con- 
trasting with the darker hues of the distant hills, forms a spec- 
tacle highly grateful to the eye." 

" The flat land on the opposite side of the river called Bul- 
lom, which signifies low land, is also extremely beautiful, and 
the land finely shaded by lofty, spreading trees. The soil also 
is remarkably fertile, and though in some places swampy, is for 
the most part bordered by a fine sandy beach." 

It is known to all, that the Western Coast of Africa has 
been the scene of the nefarious slave trade. From time imme- 
morial slavery has existed in Africa among the natives, and in 
all cases where their avarice got the belter of their cruelty, the 
conquered nations, or as many as they could get possession of, 
were reduced to slavery, and carried off" from their country. 
But the slave trade, as carried on by Europeans, commenced 
about the beginning of the sixteenth century. It has been fre- 
quently asserted, but by some contradicted, that this detestable 
traffic originated in motives of humanity; that Las Casas, the 
distinguished friend of the aborigines of America, had recourse 
to the expedient of importing African slaves into the Spanish 
colonies, to save his beloved Indians from servitude. We will 
leave it to the historians of South America to settle this point. 
If the fact is true, it is a most glaring instance of the incon- 
sistency of a great philanthropist, who spent his life and fortune 
in attempts to promote the happiness of the natives of America. 
There is here no room for one European nation to cast reproach 
upon others; for it appears that every nation which had pos- 
sessions in America resorted to this mode of supplying labour- 
ers to their colonies. England, France, Spain, Portugal, Rus- 
sia, Denmark, Sweden, and Holland, have been engaged in it. 
The government of the United States, since the Declaration of 
Independence, has never participated in the African slave trade: 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLOMZATION. 33 

neither has any of the States in their separate capacity, except 
South CaroUna; and by the existing laws of the United States, 
this traffic is declared to be piracy. 

Before the Independence of the United States some of the 
colonies were aggrieved by the multitude of slaves imported 
into the country, and the House of Assembly of Virginia, re- 
monstrated and petitioned against the growing evil, but in vain. 
Accordingly, in the Declaration of Independence, this is put 
down among the reasons why a separation from the mother 
country was justifiable and necessary. 

The English continued to carry on the slave trade, without 
restraint, until the year 1S05, when an act of the British 
Parliament interdicted the importation of slaves into certain 
colonies, except in certain specified cases. In 1S07 a law was 
enacted, prohibiting British subjects supplying foreign colonies 
with slaves. In ISOS this traffic was entirely prohibited, and in 
1811 it was declared felony. And in 1824, traffic in slaves was 
made piracy, by the laws of England. And in 1834 an act 
was passed to abolish slavery throughout the colonies of Great 
Britain ; and that those who under the sanction of law had 
acquired this property might have no reason to complain of 
injustice, £20,000,000 were appropriated for the remuneration 
of slaveholders in the West India Islands. 

The atrocities and enormities practised in carrying on this 
trade need not be here described ; the feelings and imagination 
of the Christian public have been sufficiently excited and har- 
rowed by the most vivid, and sometimes the most exaggerated, 
descriptions of these cruelties. It has, for a long time, been a 
favourite theme of pathetic declamation, by which the people 
have been roused almost to fanatic madness. While all men 
of sound moral sense must agree in condemning this traffic, the 
cool and impartial will agree, that Divine Providence has over- 
ruled the slavery of the Africans, and their importation to 
America, so as to render that which in its origin was most un- 
just and cruel, the occasion of unspeakable good to multitudes 
of the African race. While, then, we abhor the iniquity of the 
slave trade, we may piously rejoice that these degraded heathen 
were brought to our shores, where they have had the opportu- 
nity of knowing the Lord Jesus Christ, the only name given 
under heaven whereby we must be saved. Hundreds and 
thousands of native Africans and their descendants, have here 



34 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

embraced the gospel of Christ, and found eternal life, for it is 
the glory of the gospel that it brings redemption and salvation 
as freely to the slave in his chains as to the king on his throne ; 
yea, it is the very genius of the gospel to bring glad tidings to 
the poor and distressed, and deliverance to the captives. 

But the providence of God, in that remarkable dispensation, 
by which several millions of the descendants of Africa are 
found in America, is but partially developed, as yet. The signs 
of the times at present indicate that there is something still more 
important hidden in the counsels of Heaven, in regard to this 
people, than anything which has yet been developed. It may 
confidently be hoped, that the sons of Africa, now resident in 
America, will be the honoured instruments of spreading the 
light of the gospel through the benighted nations of a whole 
continent. There is something truly animating and sublime in 
the idea, that the descendants of those brought here in fetters 
and manacles shall, not only as freemen, but as Christians, carry 
back to their father-land the Bible, and the various arts and 
institutions of the civilized world. The dawn of a glorious 
day for Africa has already appeared. Several colonies have 
already been auspiciously commenced on her shores; and the 
very ground which has for ages been the scene of her degrada- 
tion and wrongs, is now become the site of flourishing Christian 
colonies, which, by their religion, their morality, their laws, 
their order, their agriculture, their trade, and their schools, are 
attracting the attention of all the surrounding nations, and 
already producing an effect beyond the expectations of the 
most sanguine. And at this time the colonies oppose a more 
effectual barrier to the slave trade, than all the laws and navies 
of Great Britain and America. Indeed, if these colonies prosper 
as they have done, and others which are in contemplation 
should be formed, the disgraceful trafiic will be excluded from 
all that part of Western Africa which lies north of the equator. 
No event which has occurred in the present generation, seems 
likely to be attended with more momentous and beneficial 
effects, than the planting of these colonies on the very verge of 
the kingdom of darkness ; and seldom in any period of the 
world, have colonies been begun under more auspicious cir- 
cumstances. Almost the only drawback to uniform prosperity 
has arisen from the deleterious character of the climate ; but it 
possesses this character solely in relation to the white man. No 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION'. 35 

people appear to enjoy more health than the natives ; and the 
coloured people who have gone from this country, after a short 
season of acclimation, attended with some danger, appear to be 
as free from disease as when they resided in the United States. 
It has added unspeakably to the success and good influence of 
these infant colonies, that from the commencement, they have 
been associated with missionary eftbrts. Thus far the mission- 
ary stations have been necessarily within the colonies;* and the 
presence of such devoted, pious men, has had a benign influ- 
ence on the emigrants. The prejudice which has been indus- 
triously excited among the coloured people of this country, 
against African colonization, though widely spread, has thus 
far been overruled for good. The greatest danger to be appre- 
hended in this whole business, is that the colonists might be 
disposed to assume the reins of self-government, before they 
are properly prepared for it. If the colonization scheme had 
been popular among the free people of colour, the colonies 
would have filled up too rapidly, and there could not have been 
so good a selection of emigrants, as it has been in the power of 
the American Colonization Society to make. The colonies in 
the meantime are growing in stability, and acquiring, every 
day, more and more that experience in self government, which 
is so important to their prosperity; and as the accession to their 
numbers is not great, at any one lime, the new emigrants natu- 
rally fall into the spirit of the Society, and under the regular 
operation of the laws established : so that they can be incorpo- 
rated into the body politic without any inconvenience, just as 
the materials for the growth of the natural body are without 
pain or commotion, assimilated to the parts before existing. 
Even the recaptured pagan slaves have, under these favourable 
circumstances, made progress in improvement which has as- 
tonished all who witnessed it. The growth of the colonies has 
been less rapid, than if multitudes had desired to avail them- 
selves of the advantages of the plan: but this very slowness 
of growth has been for its health, and perhaps for its salva- 
tion. 

The virulent opposition of the abolitionists, so unreasonable 
and unexpected, has also been overruled for the benefit of the 

* Since the above was written, mission stations have been established both by 
tlie Methodist and Baptist societies without the limits of Liberia. 



36 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

colonization scheme. When it was first proposed to plant a 
colony of free coloured people on the coast of Africa, with 
their own consent, no one seemed to dream of any objection, 
unless it should come from a certain class of slave-holders; and 
for years no opposition was made, and the cause languished. 
Legislatures and ecclesiastical synods and conventions, passed 
resolutions approbatory of the scheme ; and there it rested. 
The public mind was not sufficiently excited to take much in- 
terest in the Society ; and its important bearings were unheed- 
ed. The violent action of the abolitionists, roused the public 
attention; led to a careful examination of the principles of the 
Society, and the important prospects which were open before 
it : and although the opposition swept off many of the former 
friends of colonization, yet the cause never prospered so much 
as since it was attacked and calumniated as the compound of 
almost all evil. None but a mind distorted by fanaticism could 
ever have discovered any point of collision between an aboli- 
tion and colonization society. In fact they aimed at entirely 
different objects: the one seeking a more favourable situation 
for as many of the free people of colour as might be disposed 
to leave this country, with the hope of bettering their circum- 
stances. With slavery, as a society, they had nothing to do: 
whereas the abolitionists aimed simply at the removal of 
slavery, and of course free people of any colour, were not the 
objects of their eff"orts. Bat though this is the theory, yet in 
fact, no two societies have ever existed, in a more hostile atti- 
tude to each other; and even slavery itself does not appear to 
call forth more indignant hatred, than the inoffensive, simple 
plan of finding a home in Africa, for a certain number of free 
people of colour, who did not feel themselves comfortably situa- 
ted in this country. But as the opposition has made new friends 
for the Colonization Society; so it has increased the zeal and 
activity of its old friends, many degrees. The prospects of ulti- 
mate and great success, have never been so flattering as at 
present. The plan of planting separate colonies by State socie- 
ties promises much good : the evil apprehended from a want of 
capacity for self-government, will by this means be greatly 
diminished; and no doubt, in due time, all danger of collision 
between these separate colonies will be prevented by a wise 
system of confederation, which has already been proposed by 
the mother societv; but for which the infant colonies are not 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 37 

yet ripe.* Tt will be good policy to maintain the connexion of 
the respective colonies with the societies in this country, which 
planted them, as long as it can possibly be done. The moment 
when this connexion is severed will be critical in the history of 
Liberia. 

It is a matter of surprise, as well as regret, that the minds of 
British Christians have been so much prejudiced against the 
colonization scheme, as conducted in America. This was the 
less to be expected, as they have on this very coast, a flourish- 
ing colony, the situation of which we have had under review, 
and the history of which we propose immediately to give.t 

It must doubtless be attributed, in a great measure, to the 
extraordinary excitement produced in the nation previously to 
the passing the act of abolition, by which all their slaves were 
liberated. When this fever shall subside, they will return 
again to the habit of sober reflection, and be capable of exam- 
ining the principles of American colonization, exempt from 
prejudice. 

The writer in the Missionary Records, published in 
London by the Religious Tract Society, from whom I have 
borrowed the description of Sierra Leone, and the short account 
of the native tribes, concludes his views of the slave trade 
with the following just reflections: 

" The slave trade, which, like the Upas, blasts all that is 
wholesome in its vicinity, has, however, in one important in- 
stance, been overruled for good in Africa. It has been made 
the means of assembling on one spot, and that on a Christian 
soil, individuals from almost every nation on the western coast 
of Africa. It has been made the means of introducing to 
civilization and religion, many hundreds from the interior of 
that vast continent, who had never seen the face of a white 
man, nor ever heard the name of Jesus. And it will be made 
the means of sending to nations beyond the Niger and the Zaire, 

* Such a plan was adopted in 1833, and Mr. Buchanan went out as the gover- 
nor of all the colonies planted by Americans, except Cape Palmas, which is pecu- 
liarly situated, and being connected with the state of Maryland, cannot adopt the 
same system which may be convenient to the other colonies. 

+ Mr. Buxton, the leading man in promoting the abolition of slavery in the 
colonies of Great Britain, has recently published a book, in which he declares that 
all that has been done by the British government to abolish the slave trade has 
eventually tended to its increase, and that the object can never be effected but by 
establishing trading houses all along the coast. 
4 



38 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

native missionaries, who will preach the Redeemer in the utter- 
most parts of the country, and cause their countrymen to hear, 
in their own tongue, the wonderful works of God. European 
avarice, and native profligacy, leave no part of Africa unex- 
plored for victims, and these slaves rescued by our cruisers, and 
landed on the shores of our colonies, are received by our mis- 
sionaries, and placed in their schools. Not only by this means 
is positive good efiected, but valuable information as to the 
country is procured, the various native languages may be com- 
pared and analysed, and under the divine blessing, the ferocious 
or despairing captive may become the active and zealous mis- 
sionary. 

" If these circumstances display the marvellous wisdom of 
God, whose ways are shown to be as far above our ways as 
the heavens are above the earth, there is also another circum- 
stance connected with the slave trade which displays the truth 
of God, in the strict fulfilment of a prophecy, which was deli- 
vered as early as the time of Noah. In Gen. ix. 24, 25, we 
read, ' And Noah awoke from his wine, and knew what his 
younger son had done unto him. And he said, Cursed be Ca- 
naan ; A SERVANT OF SERVANTS shall he be unto his brethren.' 
The following reflections are extracted from Bishop Newton on 
this passage : 

" The curse particularly implies servitude and subjection. 
' Cursed be Canaan, a servant of servants shall he be unto his 
brethren.' It is very well known that the word ' brethren' in 
Hebrew comprehends more distant relations. The descendants 
of Canaan, therefore, were to be subject to the descendants of 
Shem and Japhet. The same thing is repeated again and 
again in the following verse, ' and Canaan shall be a servant 
unto them,' or their servant ; so this is as it were the burden of 
the prophecy. 

"It was several centuries after this prophecy, when the Israel- 
ites, who were the descendants of Shem, under the command 
of Joshua, invaded the Canaanites, smote above thirty of their 
kings, took possession of their land, made the Gibeonites and 
others servants ; and Solomon, afterwards, slew the rest. The 
Greeks and Romans too, who were descended from Japheth, 
not only subdued Syria and Palestine, but pursued and con- 
quered such of the Canaanites as were any where remaining ; 
as, for instance, the Syrians and Carthaginians, the former of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 39 

whom were ruined by Alexander and the Grecians, and the 
latter by Scipio and the Romans. " This fate," says Mr. Mede, 
« was it which made Hannibal, a child of Canaan, cry out with 
the amazement of his soul, " I acknowledge the fortune of 
Carthage." And ever since, the miserable remainder of this 
people have been slaves to a foreign yoke; first to the Sara- 
cens, who descended from Shem, and afterwards to the Turks 
who descended from Japheth, and they grieve under this do- 
minion until this day. The whole continent of Africa was 
peopled principally by the children of Ham ; and for how many 
ages have the better parts of the country lain under the domi- 
nion of the Romans, then of the Saracens, and now of the 
Turks! In what wickedness, barbarity, ignorance, slavery, 
and misery live most of the inhabitants ! And of the poor 
negroes, how many hundreds every year are sold and bought, 
like beasts, in the market, and are conveyed from one quarter 
of the globe, to do the work of beasts in another !" 



CHAPTER II. 

ORIGIN OF THE COLONY AT SIERRA LEONE. 

In 1787 a number of gentlemen subscribed a few thousand 
pounds as a fund for assisting some destitute blacks, then in 
London, to settle at Sierra Leone. These were among the 
slaves who had taken refuge in the British army, during the 
war of the American revolution ; and who on the return of the 
troops accompanied them to England. The question may very 
naturally arise, why were they not encouraged to remain in 
London, or to seek a settlement in some other part of the 
country? This question is peculiarly pertinent at this time, 
when the British public, or a large portion of them, can see no 
good reason for the existence of the American Colonization 
Society ; and cannot understand why the free people of colour 
cannot be permitted peaceably to remain where they are. 
The fact, that when only a few hundred of these people were 
carried to London, under a strong pledge that they should be 



40 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

provided for, they fell into such a miserable condition that men 
of a benevolent character felt themselves imperiously called 
upon to contrive a plan for colonizing them in xlfrica, is a suffi- 
cient answer to all objections to African colonization. The 
English set us the example of seeking a residence for the de- 
scendants of Africa on the coast of that land from which their 
forefathers were forcibly and wickedly carried away. This 
colony had been fondly cherished by British Christians, and 
fostered and protected by the government; and when Americans, 
influenced by the same motives, have engaged in colonizing the 
same kind of people, on the same coast, why is the enterprise 
viewed with suspicion, or calumniated as the fruit of unworthy 
motives, as it is in most of the religious periodicals of Great 
Britain ? 

But to return: the gentlemen alluded to procured from the "* 
native chiefs, a cession of a considerable district of land for the 
settlement of their little colony. The British government very 
liberally seconded their views by taking upon itself the expense 
of transporting the blacks thither, and of supplying them with 
necessaries during the first six or eight months of their residence 
in Africa. During the passage of these unfortunate people to 
Sierra Leone they experienced some share of the same evils 
which have been so often pathetically described as taking place 
on board the slave ships, by being crowded into too narrow a 
space ; for out of four hundred and sixty who embarked, eighty- 
four died on ship board ; and when they were landed in Africa 
their troubles were not ended; for before the close of the first 
rainy season, a hundred more of the infant colony fell victims 
to the climate or to intemperance. And in the year 1790, in 
consequence of being involved in a dispute between the natives 
and the crew of a British vessel, without any fault of their 
own, they were driven from the habitations which they had 
erected. The British vessel, by the imprudent conduct of the 
crew of which they had thus innocently suffered, had set fire to 
a town of a neighbouring chief. In 1791, they were again col- 
lected, through the agency of the agent of the Sierra Leone 
Company; and they now fixed themselves in Granville, two or 
three miles distant from Freetown, where they first settled. 

Some of the most distinguished philanthropists of the age were 
among the projectors of this colonization scheme, and became 
directors of the company. It will be sufficient barely to mention 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 41 

the names of such men as Granville Sharp, William Wilberforce, 
Henry Thornton, Joseph Hardcastle, and Thomas Clarkson. 
The motives by which these men were actuated, are above sus- 
picion, and of the most benevolent kind ; and we unhesitatingly 
ascribe motives of the same kind to the founders of the Ameri- 
can Colonization Society. In neither case was there any room 
for any sinister motives to operate ; and we have reason to 
think, that the suggestion was from heaven, and that this enter- 
prise will to posterity appear to have been one of the most im- 
portant, as well as the most benevolent, conceived in the present 
age. Tiie pure and elevated motives which led these excellent 
men to engage in this scheme, stamp an importance upon it, 
which would by no means belong to it, if it had originated in 
the usual motives which lead to such transactions. 

The company was incorporated, and a considerable capital 
appeared likely to be raised for carrying on the undertaking. 
Another company of negroes, who escaped from slavery 
during the American war, were conveyed by the British fleet 
to Nova Scotia. These, finding the severe climate of this 
northern province uncongenial to their constitutions, and having 
heard of the colony at Sierra Leone, despatched a delegate to 
England to request that they might also be transported to Africa. 
Besides the severity of the climate, they complained of the 
sterility of the soil ; and, especially, that the allotments of land 
promised to them, when they emigrated to Nova Scotia, had 
not generally been received. Their petition was received 
favourably by the directors of the Sierra Leone Company, who 
joined with the delegate in an application to government to 
give them a free passage to Africa, which was readily granted. 
To superintend and expedite the emigration of these people of 
colour. Lieutenant Clarkson handsomely made a tender of his 
services to go to Nova Scotia and attend to the business. The 
agreement of the company was to receive all free blacks from 
Nova Scotia, who could produce testimonials of good character, 
more particularly as to honesty, sobriety, and industry, and to 
grant to each family a lot of land, in proportion to their num- 
bers. The company had been led to believe that only a few 
hundred persons would be the number of those who wished to 
emigrate, but to their surprise they proved to be no less than 
eleven hundred and ninety-six. This large and unexpected 
accession materially affected the whole undertaking, and in- 
4* 



42 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

diiced the company immediately Xo take measures to increase 
their capital stock, which was now raised to two hundred and 
thirty-five thousand, two hundred and eighty pounds sterling. 
They also sent out immediately two vessels, with needful sup- 
plies for the colony, and a hundred white emigrants, part of 
whom were artisans, and part agriculturists. Soon after the 
arrival of these vessels from England, sixteen vessels came from 
Nova Scotia, bringing elven hundred and thirty-one blacks, 
many of them labouring under the effects of a fever, contracted 
in Halifax, of which sixty-five had died on the passage. 

These colonists were located on the ground at first occupied 
by the former emigrants, and by special direction, the place was 
named Freetown. Here, huts were erected after the fashion 
of the country, with as much expedition as possible, that they 
might be comfortably sheltered before the commencement of 
the rainy season. The directors at home, apprehending the 
danger of a want of suitable shelter during this season, had 
caused a large merchant vessel to be fitted up for their accommo- 
dation, which was sent out loaded with various stores, as well 
as frames of houses, and materials for building : but being 
driven back by a storm, she did not arrive in time to be of any 
service, during the first sickly season; though afterwards she 
was made a good use of, both as a storehouse, and floating 
factory. 

The sickness notwithstanding all the precautions used, was 
extensive ; it being supposed that eight hundred of the emi- 
grants were down at one time ; but the fever of the coast with 
which they were affected, proved much more fatal to the Euro- 
peans, than to the black emigrants; and what increased the dis- 
tress, the medical attendants, with but one exception, were laid 
up with the disease. During the season, about one-half the white 
inhabitants on shore, and about one-tenth of the Nova Scotia 
emigrants died. Of twenty-six upper servants of the company, 
four, and of fifty-nine lower servants, twenty-nine died. Of 
the eighteen settlers, thirteen, and of the sixteen soldiers, 
eleven died. 

In the dry season which followed, the lots for the Nova 
Scotians were surveyed ; each of them had four acres assigned 
him; though twenty had been originally promised; but the 
land adjacent to the settlement turned out to be not as good as 
it had been represented. Several public buildings were now 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 43 

erected, as a church, a hospital, a warehouse, and other build- 
ings, of which the frame \%OYk was brought from England, 
and some measures were taken for the defence of the colony. 

The next year the condition of the colony was evidently in 
an improving state ; some new arrangements were made in the 
police ; and some gentlemen of experience were sent out to aid 
in the government; and the natives uniformly appeared friend- 
ly, and seemed to view the increase of the colony, with plea- 
sure. But this prosperity was of short duration. The break- 
ing out of the war in Europe damped the hopes, and interrupt- 
ed the progress of the rising colony. The destruction of their 
store-ship by fire, with a considerable quantity of goods, was a 
heavy disaster. The whole loss sustained was estimated at 
fifteen thousand pounds sterling, and no insurance had been 
effected on vessel or goods. 

The season, this year, when compared with the sickly season 
of the last, was marked with very little increase of disease; and 
contrary to what was then the fact, those on land were less 
subject to the fever than those on ship board. The expenses of 
the colony very far exceeded every calculation which had been 
made. With the loss incurred by the conflagration of the store- 
ship, it was found, that no less than eighty-two thousand pounds 
sterling had already been expended on the colony. The feel- 
ings of the directors, however, appear to have been of the right 
kind. They piously remark, " That they must leave the event 
of success, after all their endeavours, to the disposal of Him 
who can disappoint utterly if he pleases, the most favourite 
schemes of men ; can obstruct and suspend for a while their 
accomplishment, or can crown them if he sees fit, with the most 
signal and unexpected success." A scheme of pure philan- 
thropy, undertaken by men actuated by such sentiments, can 
hardly fail of ultimate success, however many trials and disap- 
pointments, may for a while, put their faith to a severe test. 

On the 27th of September 1794, a French squadron made its 
appearance on the coast; and began to fire on the town. All 
resistance being vain against such a force, the colony was im- 
mediately surrendered into their hands. The conduct of the 
French Commodore and his men was ferocious, and even cruel, 
to this helpless, infant colony. They not only seized the goods 
of the company and of English residents, but robbed the houses 
of the poor blacks of whatever they could carry away; and 



44 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

then set the town on fire. Even the church was pillaged, and 
the medicine store destroyed; which last proved the severest 
loss of all. After the first conflagration, a second was ordered, 
in which the church and all the remaining houses were con- 
sumed. And most unfortunately, while the French had pos- 
session of the colony, the company's largest ship, the Harpy, 
came in sight, having on board several passengers, and goods 
to the amount of £10,000. Observing the demolition of the 
company's houses, she put back to sea, but was discovered 
and pursued by the French ; and when captured, all the goods 
were seized, and even the property of the English passengers 
was also taken. None of these articles were landed, but im- 
mediately carried away. What rendered this calamity doubly 
severe was the fact, that in this vessel the company had sent 
out a plant hatch, containing many valuable articles received 
from the king's collection at Kew, which it was supposed 
would be likely to grow and flourish in this chmate. Two 
other vessels of the company, employed in the coasting trade, 
were also taken. All the native chiefs appeared to be afflicted 
on account of the overwhelming calamity which had befallen 
the colony, except the slave dealers. These, from the beginning 
viewed the rising colony with an invidious eye, and as they 
cherished hostile feelings towards it, so they rejoiced in its de- 
struction. 

About three weeks after the French squadron had left the 
colony, sickness broke out among the white inhabitants, in- 
duced by fatigue and want of wholesome food ; and now the 
destruction of their whole store of medicines was severely felt. 
The French had put on shore one hundred and twenty cap- 
tured sailors, of whom eighty now died. 

The loss of the company by this hostile visit was estimated 
at £40,000, exclusive of the buildings burned, which had cost 
£15,000. The only good result of the arrival of the French 
squadron on the African coast was, the robbing and breaking 
up of many of the English slave factories. The amount of 
property destroyed or carried away by them, on the whole 
coast, was about £400,000. 

The many disasters of the colony were repaired by the active 
exertions which the company continued to make. The settle- 
ment resumed its prosperity; extended its survey over the 
neishbouring coast, and received embassies even from remote 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 45 

African states. For several years nothing remarkable occurred 
in the exterior or political relations of the colony; and as for 
the missionary operations prosecuted here, a particular account 
shall be given in another place. 

In the year 1800, a new accession was made to the colony 
by the Maroons, from Jamaica. The arrival of these emigrants 
was very opportune, for at that time the Nova Scotia blacks 
were in a state of insurrection, which these West Indians aided 
much in putting down. 

Shortly after this, a body of Timmanees headed by two of 
the fugitive blacks, made an attack upon the fort, but were re- 
pulsed with loss. The Nova Scotia blacks were so turbulent, 
that it became necessary to establish a more coercive govern- 
ment over them, and even to bring a small military force from 
Goree, to keep them in order. 

The British parliament allowed the company £7000 for 
erecting a fort, with a promise of £8000 more for the same 
object, and £10,000 for the expenses of settling the blacks from 
Nova Scotia, and £4000 for the expenses of the civil govern- 
ment of the colony. And in 1802, the parliament again voted 
£10,000 for the expenses of the settlement: and in 1803 it was 
suggested to the company by the ministry, that it would be for 
the benefit of the colony to transfer the civil and military 
power from the company to the government. The cession was 
accordingly made, and the colony is now under the authority of 
a governor who resides at Sierra Leone, appointed by, and 
amenable to the British government. Upon giving up the 
colony, the directors of the company published a statement, 
which demonstrated the success of the company, in the attain- 
ment of its most important objects; and was calculated to con- 
vince every proprietor that his money had been expended to a 
noble purpose. The following is the substance of the above 
mentioned statement. 

" However great may have been the company's loss in a 
pecuniary view, the directors are unwilling to admit, that there 
has been a total failure in their main object, or that their capi- 
tal has been expended without effect. It must afford satisfac- 
tion to reflect, that the company should both have conceived 
and attempted to execute those plans of beneficence which led 
to the institution of the colony; and that they should have con- 



46 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tinned to pursue them for so many years, in the face of opposi- 
tion, disappointment, and loss; in spite of severe calamities, 
arising from European as well as African wars, and much tur- 
bulence on the part of the colonists. The proprietors have the 
further satisfaction of knowing, that the company have con- 
tributed to the abolition of the slave trade, by exposing its real 
nature before the view of a hesitating legislature, and detecting 
the artifices and misrepresentations by which the persons en- 
gaged in it laboured to delude the public. 

<' The company have communicated the benefits flowing 
from a knowledge of letters, and from Christian instruction, to 
hundreds of negroes on the coast of Africa ; and, by a careful 
education in this country, they have elevated the character of 
several of the children of African chiefs, and directed their 
minds to objects of the very first importance to their country- 
men. They have ascertained that the cultivation of every 
valuable article of tropical export may be carried on in Africa; 
that Africans in a state of freedom are susceptible of the same 
motives to industry and laborious exertion which influence the 
natives of Europe ; and that some African chiefs are sufficiently 
enlightened to comprehend, and sufficiently patriotic to en- 
courage schemes of improvement. They have demonstrated 
that negroes may be governed by the same mild laws, which 
are found consistent with the maintenance of rational liberty 
even in this kingdom ; and that they may be safely and advan- 
tageously entrusted with the administration of those laws, not 
only as jurors, but even as judicial assessors. They have in 
some measure retrieved the credit of the British, it may be add- 
* ed, of the Christian name, on the continent of Africa ; and have 
convinced its inhabitants, that there are Englishmen who are 
actuated by very difl;erent motives from those of self-interest, 
and who desire nothing so much as their improvement and 
happiness. To conclude, they have established in a central part 
of Africa, a colony, which appears to be now provided with 
adequate means both of defence and subsistence ; which by the 
blessing of Providence, may become an emporium of commerce, 
a school of industry, and a source of knowledge, civilization, 
and religious improvement to the inhabitants of that continent; 
and which may hereafter repay to Great Britain, the benefits 
she shall have communicated, by opening a continually in- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 47 

creasing market for those manufactures, which are now no 
longer secure of their accustomed vent on the continent of 
Europe." 

The settlement of a colony on the continent of Africa attract- 
ed the attention of some of the people of colour in the United 
States. At that time there sailed from the ports of Massachu- 
setts a very remarkable man of colour, by the name of Paul 
Cuffee. This man was born at New Bedford, Massachusetts, 
in 1759, of an American father and an aboriginal mother. His 
early years were spent in poverty and obscurity, but possess- 
ing a vigorous mind, by industry and perseverance, guided by 
practical good sense, he rose to wealth and respectability. 
He was largely engaged in navigation, and in many voyages to 
foreign countries commanded his own vessel. His desire to 
raise his coloured brethren in this country to civil and reli- 
gious liberty in the land of their forefatliers, induced him to 
offer some of the free people of colour a passage to the western 
coast of Africa. About forty embarked with him at Boston, 
and landed at Sierra Leone, where they were kindly received. 
Only eight of these were able to pay their passage : the whole 
expense of the remainder, amounting to nearly ^4000, was de- 
frayed by the noble-minded Pa'ul Cuffee. 

If Captain Cuffee had lived to see the comnmgncement of the 
colony of Liberia, no man in America would have more re- 
joiced in the prospect of seeing a place provided for the free 
people of colour where they could enjoy the real blessings of 
liberty and independence. With the friends of African coloni- 
zation this man's name should be held in high estimation ; as 
being the first man who actually conducted emigrants from the 
United States to the coast of Africa; and that too at expense of 
his own funds greater than any other individual has ever laid 
out, in transporting colonists to that country. 



48 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

CHAPTER III. 

ORIGIN OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

If the scheme of colonizing the free people of colour, on the 
coast of Africa, should eventually prove successful, it will here- 
after become a matter of curious and interesting inquiry, where, 
and with whom, the idea of such a colony first originated. As 
it relates to America, it has commonly been supposed, that the 
first distinct idea of transporting the descendants of Africans to 
the land of their forefathers was entertained by the Legislature 
of Virginia. But it is a fact well known, that the colony of 
Sierra Leone had been planted on the western coast of Africa, 
some time before the secret resolutions, on this subject, were 
adopted by the General Assembly and Senate of the state of 
Virginia. 

There is reason to believe that, in England, Granville Sharpe, 
always the zealous friend of th^jj^frican race, was the projector 
of the scheme for colonizing the people of colour at Sierra 
Leone. The cr?dit of originating this plan would seem then to 
belong to that distinguished philanthropist; but I must put in 
a plea for a person whose name has scarcely ever been men- 
tioned in connexion with African colonization. The person to 
whom I refer is the Rev. Samuel Hopkins, D. D., of Rhode 
Island. As the part which he acted in regard to the African 
race is very interesting, and very little known, I will, from the 
memoir of his life by the Rev. John Ferguson, extract such 
facts as have a bearing on this subject. Dr. Hopkins is well 
known, not only in this country, but in Great Britain and Ire- 
land, as a theological writer. In fact, he is the author of a 
system of theology, and of a number of lesser works, in which 
he maintains a number of tenets so much at variance with old 
Calvinistic opinions, that his system has, with his consent, been 
denominated Hopkinsianism. That Dr. Hopkins was an emi- 
nently pious man was never doubted by any who were ac- 
quainted with his character. But we are at present only con- 
cerned with his life so far as his conduct had relation to the 
African race. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 49 

At the time when Dr. Hopkins settled at Newport, the slave 
trade was carried on by the merchants of Rhode Island to a 
great extent, and the lawfulness of the traffic had not been 
called in question. Slavery was common in New England; 
and in Newport nearly all persons able to purchase slaves, were 
slaveholders. Indeed, Dr. Hopkins himself, while he resided 
at Great Barrington, was the owner of a slave whom he sold 
before coming to Newport. The iniquity of the slave trade 
seems before this time to have occurred to none ; at least it had 
been denounced by no one. The subject was now taken up 
and seriously considered by Dr. Hopkins, and the result was a 
deep conviction of the injustice of the trade, and of the evils 
of slavery itself. He felt that some remuneration was due to 
Africa for the injuries inflicted on her by our country, and im- 
mediately began to think of a plan of educating some persons 
of the African race, and sending them back to civilize and 
evangelize the savages of that dark continent. Although the 
peopfe of Newport were deeply engaged in the slave trade, and 
derived their wealth very much from this source, and his 
own people as much as others, yet he determined to lift up his 
voice against it ; and accordingly, several years before the com- 
mencement of the revolutionary war, he preached a sermon to 
his people pointedly condemning this • iniquitous traffic. The 
eff"ect of this discourse was very diff'orent from what might 
have been apprehended ; for, instead of arousing their opposi- 
tion and resentment, as he feared, it produced a general convic- 
tion that the whole thing was wrong. The people were sur- 
prized that they had never viewed the practice in the same 
light before. And it was not long before his church passed a 
resolution, "That the slave trade, and the slavery of the Afri- 
cans, as it has existed among us, is a gross violation of the 
righteousness and benevolence which are so much inculcated in 
the gospel, and therefore we will not tolerate it in this church." 
In furtherance of the scheme of educating Africans to be 
sent back to their own country to instruct their countrymen. 
Dr. Hopkins appropriated the money which he had received 
for the slave sold by him while resident at Great Barrington. 
And as he knew that a solitary individual could accomplish 
little in such a work, he set himself to form an African mis- 
sionary society, to educate and send out missionaries to carry 
the gospel to that benighted region. So much was his heart 
5 



50 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

engaged in this enterprise, that, besides the 'sum already men- 
tioned, contributed by himself, he borrowed, on his own respon- 
sibihty, as much as was required to purchase a slave whom he 
wished, after preparation, to send to Africa. He also exerted 
himself to procure the emancipation of three others, and to ob- 
tain means for their education. • To accomplish his object he 
corresponded with the society in Scotland " For the Promotion 
of Christian knowledge." And in conjunction with Dr. Stiles, 
then a pastor of a congregation in Newport, but afterwards 
President of Yale College, he made an appeal to the public in 
behalf of the object which he had in view. This address was 
published in August 1773. The following is the substance of 
the address : — " There has been a design formed, and some 
attempts have lately been made, to send the gospel to Guinea, 
by encouraging and furnishing two men to go and preach the 
gospel to their brethren there. To all who are desirous to pro- 
mote the kingdom of Christ on earth, in the salvation of sin- 
ners, the following narrative and proposals are offered, to excite 
their charity and solicit their prayers. There are two coloured 
members belonging to the First Congregational Church in New- 
port, on Rhode Island, named Bristol Yamma and John Qua- 
niine, who were hopefully converted some years ago, and have 
l?om that time sustained a good Christian character, and have 
made good proficiency in Christian knowledge. The latter is 
the son of a rich man at Annamboe,and was sent by his father 
to this place for education among the English, and then to re- 
turn home. All this the person to whom he was committed 
promised to perform for a good reward. But instead of being 
faithful to his trust, he sold him for a slave for life. But God, 
in his providence, has put it into the power of both of them to 
obtain their freedom. These persons, thus acquainted with 
Christianity, and apparently devoted to the service of Christ, 
are about thirty years old ; have good natural abilities, are apt, 
steady, and judicious, and speak their native language ; the 
language of a numerous, potent nation in Guinea, to which 
they both belong. They are not only willing, but desirous to 
quit all worldly prospects, and risk their lives in attempting to 
open a door for the propagation of Christianity among their 
poor, perishing heathen brethren. The concurrence of all these 
things has led us to set on foot a proposal to send them to 
Africa, to preach the gospel there, if in any good degree quali- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 51 

fied for this business. * * * What is now wanted and asked, 
is money to support them at school, to make the trial, whether 
they may be fitted for the proposed mission. * * * As God, in 
his providence, has so far opened the way to this by raising up 
these persons, and ordering the remarkable concurring circum- 
stances and events which have been mentioned, and there is 
probably no other instance in America where so many things 
conspire to point out the way for a mission of this kind, with 
encouragement to pursue it, may it not be hoped that it will 
have the assistance and patronage of all the pious and bene- 
volent ? 

"And it is humbly proposed to those who are convinced of 
the iniquity of the slave trade, and are sensible of the great 
inhumanity and cruelty of enslaving so many thousands of our 
fellow men every year, with all the dreadful and horrible 
attendants, and are ready to bear testimony against it in all 
proper ways, and do their utmost to put a stop to it, whether 
they have not a good opportunity of doing this, by cheerfully 
contributing, according to their ability, to promote the mission 
proposed. And whether this is not the least compensation we 
are able to make to the poor Africans for the injuries they are 
constantly receiving by this unrighteous practice. 

" But aside from this consideration, may we not hope that all 
who are heartily praying, 'thy kingdom come,' will liberally 
contribute to forward this attempt to send the glorious gospel 
of the blessed God to the nations who now worship false gods, 
and dwell in the habitations of cruelty, and the land of the 
shadow of death, especially as the King of Zion has promised, 
that whosoever parts with any thing in this world for the king- 
dom of heaven's sake, shall receive manifold more in this pre- 
sent time, and in the world to come, everlasting life?" 

The preceding address was subscribed by Ezra Stiles and_ 
Samuel Hopkins, and dated August 31, 1773. 

The effect of this sensible, sober, and pious circular was, that 
contributions to the amount of more than one hundred pounds, 
were sent in, of which thirty pounds were received from the 
society in Scotland for promoting Christian knowledge. The 
answer to the circular from that society shows that they took a 
lively interest in the novel enterprise, and deserves to be pre- 
served. It is as follows: — "The perusal of this memorial, gave 
great satisfaction to the Directors, while it excited their admira- 



52 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tioii at the various, secret, and most unlikely means, whereby 
an all-wise Providence sees meet to accomplish his gracious 
purposes. At the same time they rejoiced at the fair prospect 
now afforded, to extend the JNIediator's kingdom to those na- 
tions, who dwell at present in the habitations of cruelty, and in 
the region and shadow of death. After saying so much, it is 
almost unnecessary to add, that the plan suggested in your 
memorial, received the warmest approbation of the directors of 
the society; and that they highly applauded your pious zeal in 
this matter, which tliey earnestly wish and hope may be crown- 
ed with success." 

They received also commujaications from several ecclesiasti- 
cal bodies, expressive of their cordial approbation of the enter- 
prise. 

To prepare the two young men before mentioned for their 
missionary work, it was judged expedient to send them to 
Princeton, New Jersey, to be for a season, under the tuition of 
the Rev. Dr. Witherspoon, the President of the New Jersey 
College. How long they continued in this place, or what pro- 
ficiency they made in their studies, we are not informed. The 
interest which Dr. Hopkins felt in every thing which related to 
the former history of these young Africans, was remarkable. 
Having heard that at Cape Coast Castle, there resided a native 
of Guinea, who had not only been converted from Paganism to 
Christianity, but had been admitted into the sacred ministry, 
and was then a missionary under " The Society in London 
for the Propagation of the Gospel," he wrote to him to inquire 
respecting the family of John Quamine ; and at the same time, 
informed him of the circumstance of his having been sold into 
slavery, and also described the several members of his family, 
who were left in Africa, as received from himself. Philip 
Quaque, for that was the name of the missionary, upon the re- 
ceipt of Dr. Hopkins's letter, made the requisite inquiries, and 
with complete success. This letter is so interesting, that we 
cannot deny ourselves the pleasure of laying a copy of it before 
our readers. " It is with inexpressible pleasure that I acquaint 
you, that my inquiries after the friends and relations of that 
gentleman have met with the desired success. The minute 
account he entertained you with, of his family and kindred, is 
just. His mother's name is as you have written it, who is still 
alive, and whom I had the pleasure of seeing. But the bowels 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 53 

of maternal aifection — in truth I declare it — seemed ready to 
burst, and break forth in tears of joy, like Jacob when he heard 
that his beloved son Joseph was yet alive. The joy it enkin- 
dled in expectation of seeing once more, the fruit of her womb, 
before she with her grey hairs goes down to the grave, fills her 
with ecstacies of joy, resembling Jacob's; and she breaks forth, 
and says, * It is enough — my son is yet alive. I hope, by God's 
blessing, to see him before I die.' His uncle is called by the 
same name as that which you have given him. In short, every 
circumstance is agreeable to the description given in your let- 
ter. A great personage in his family, whose name is Oforee, 
and no\v enjoys his father's estate, desires with great importu- 
nity, that I should petition you, that he may be returned to 
them, as soon as may be; and promises that nothing shall be 
wanting, to make him and all about him, comfortable and hap- 
py, among his own kindred. And the whole family join in re- 
questing me to render you all the grateful acknowledgments, 
they are able to return, for your paternal care and affection, 
exercised toward him ; and beg me to tell you that it is not in 
their power to requite you for all your trouble: they, therefore, 
hope that the good God of heaven will recompense you hereaf- 
ter for your labour of love bestowed on him." 

In another letter, from the same person, he says, '• The mo- 
ther is still looking with impatience for the return of her son, 
once dead and lost. She, and the principal cousin, who pos- 
sesses the estate of his father, join in earnestly entreating that 
you would, in your Christian love and charity to them, send the 
lad again, that he may receive their cordial embraces, looking 
upon themselves able to support him. 

"I received the charitable proposals, and sincerely thank you 
therefor. And I am joyful to hear there are Africans with 
you who partake of the blessings of the gospel, and in time 
may be the means of promoting the greatest and best interests, 
of Africans here. I wish to God for its speedy accomplishment 
when the nations who are not now called the children of Jeho- 
vah, shall become the prophets of the Lord, and the children 
of the living God. May the benediction of the Almighty 
prosper all your undertakings to the saving of many souls !" 

Some time after this information respecting the family of 
John Quamine was received, a native of Annamboe arrived at 
Newport, and confirmed all the accounts given above. He ap- 
5* 



54 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATieN. 

peared to be a sensible and inquisitive man, and of good moral 
character. He was also a relative of Quamine. He expressed 
a strong desire to learn to read, and to be instructed in the 
Christian religion. He appeared to be sensible that his coun- 
trymen were destitute of the knowledge of the true method of 
pleasing God and obtaining his favour, and said, that he had 
heard that the Christians were in possession of a revelation 
from Him, and he desired to become acquainted with its con- 
tents. He said, moreover, that there were many young men 
in his country who had a strong desire to read and write, and 
would even come to America to be educated, if they were not 
afraid of being deceived and sold, as was Quamine. He ap- 
peared to be much pleased when informed that there was a plan 
in contemplation for sending back some of the African race to 
teach the people. 

Besides the two already mentioned, who now only waited for 
a good opportunity of sailing for Africa, there was a third, 
named Salmur Nuba, a member of the Second Congregational 
Church, in Newport, then under the pastoral charge of Dr. 
Stiles; a promising young man, of about twenty years of age, 
possessing good talents, and, apparently, ardent piety. This 
young man had his freedom given to him, and was greatly de- 
sirous of attempting, in some way, the propagation of the gos- 
pel among the Africans. It was much desired to have this 
young man prepared to be a teacher or preacher in his native 
country, but the funds which the society had been able to col- 
lect were entirely inadequate. It was, therefore, resolved to 
make another appeal to the Christian public for further aid ; 
accordingly, another address was prepared, an extract from 
which is as follows : 

" Since it has pleased God so far to succeed this design, in 
his providence, and in such a remarkable manner to open the 
way from step to step, and given such hopeful prospects, and 
good encouragement to pursue it, we think it our duty still to 
prosecute it, and we ask the benefactions of all who are willing 
to promote an undertaking in itself so benevolent; and which, 
though small in its beginning, may hopefully issue in something 
very great, and open the way to the happiness and salvation of 
multitudes; yea, of many nations who are now in the most 
miserable state, ready to perish in the darkness of heathenism. 
We beg leave, also, to observe, that the present state of our 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 55 

public affairs is so fa); from being a reason for neglecting this 
proposal, that it seems rather to afford strong reason to encourage 
it. For while we are struggling for our civil and religious liber- 
ties, it will be peculiarly becoming and laudable, to exert our- 
selves to attain the same blessings for others, as far as it is in 
our power. And when God is so interposing, and ordering 
such a series of events in our favour, in this time of general 
distress, is there not a special call to pay this tribute to Him, as 
a likely method to obtain the continuation of his favour ?" This 
circular, as the former one, was subscribed by Ezra Stiles, and 
Samuel Hopkins, and was dated April 10. 1776, Newport, 
Rhode Island. 

But soon after the publication of the preceding address, the 
people of Newport, and Dr. Hopkins and his congregation 
among the rest, experienced the calamities of war. They were 
driven by the enemy from their homes, and the Africans from 
their studies. Thus, all opportunity of sending these designated 
missionaries to Africa was cut off; and not only so, but the 
pecuniary resources of the country were exhausted, and the 
members of the missionary society were scattered. Besides 
these discouraging circumstances, before the war was concluded 
and peace restored, one of the young men who had been in 
training for this service, was called away by death. Thus, this 
promising enterprise, into which Dr. Hopkins had entered with 
so warm a zeal, was frustrated by the mysterious, but all-wise, 
providence of God. Yet the agitation of this subject was not 
without its salutary effects. It was the first movement in be- 
half of poor, injured Africa. A wave was now put in motion 
which we trust will not cease its agitations until it bears on its 
bosom all the sable descendants of Africa to the land of their 
fathers. Besides, we consider this extraordinary enterprise as 
one which has a real connection with the scheme of African 
colonization, now in a course of execution. The connection 
may be thus traced. It is an ascertained fact, that Dr. Hopkins 
corresponded on the subject of sending these Africans back to 
Africa, with Granville Sharpe, the celebrated philanthropist, by 
whom, in all probability, the plan of settling a colony at Sierra 
Leone was devised. And the recollection of this scheme of 
Dr. Hopkins, to send back to Africa some of her sons as mis- 
sionaries, in all probability suggested the idea of African colo- 
nization. Whether this conjecture is correct or not, it is evident 



56 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

that Dr. Hopkins was the first who conceived the idea of send- 
ing converted Africans to their native land, for the sake of com- 
municating the knowledge of Christianity to their benighted 
countrymen. 

After the revolutionary war was terminated, by the acknow- 
ledgment, on the part of Britain, of the independence of these 
United States, Dr. Hopkins and his flock returned again to 
Newport ; and although the prospect of sending to Africa the 
persons who had been prepared for that mission was rendered 
impossible, by reason of the decease of one of the young men, 
and by the total want of adequate funds for the execution of 
that enterprise, yet his zeal in behalf of the African race was 
in no degree diminished. He wrote and published a pamphlet in 
favour of the emancipation of the Africans held in bondage in 
this country, which was, probably, the first treatise on that 
subject from any pen. He also reorganized the society which 
had been scattered during the war, to the funds of which, 
though poor, he was by far the largest contributor. Having 
received nine hundred dollars for the copy-right of his System 
of Theology, he gave one hundred to promote the objects of 
this society, and he still encouraged himself and his friends to 
proceed in their benevolent enterprise, " The way," said he 
" to the proposed mission still lies open, and the encouragements 
in it are as great as ever. All that is wanting is money, exer- 
tion, and missionaries to undertake it. There are religious 
blacks to be found who understand the language of the nations 
in those parts, who might be employed if they were properly 
encouraged; and if they were brought to embrace Christianity, 
and to be civilized, it would put an end to the slave trade and 
render them happy ; and it would open a door for trade which 
would be to the temporal interest both of the Africans and 
Americans. As attention to the propagation of the gospel 
appears to be now spreading and increasing in America, it is 
hoped that the eyes of many will now be opened to see the 
peculiar obligations they are under to attempt to send the 
gospel to the Africans, whom we have injured and abused so 
greatly, more than any other people under heaven, it being the 
best and only compensation which we can make them." It is 
truly wonderful how just and mature were the sentiments of 
this wise man, respecting the advantages which would accrue 
from the civilization and christianization of Africa. The very 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATIOX. 57 

reasons which are now urged by the friends of African coloniza- 
tion, namely, the suppression of the slave trade, the promotion 
of a trade mutually profitable to the parties, and the establish- 
ment of peace and prosperity among the natives of that conti- 
nent, are here distinctly referred to. The preceding citation is 
from Dr. Hopkins's ' Life of Susannah Osborn.' 

But, although Dr. Hopkins was disappointed in the hope 
which he had so fondly entertained of sending missionaries to 
Africa, it is a remarkable fact, that two of those young Africans 
instructed by him with a view to this mission, in extreme old 
age went to Liberia, when the colony was planted there. One 
of these was Deacon Gardner, a man well known throughout 
New England, and especially in Boston. The history of this 
man is not only remarkable but somewhat romantic. He was 
a native of Africa, but was brought to this country in the year 
1760, when only fourteen years old. He very soon manifested 
extraordinary talents, and after receiving a few elementary les- 
sons, he quickly learned to read by his own unaided efforts. 
In the same way he learned music, in which art he became 
such an adept that he composed a large number of tunes, some 
of which have been higlily approved by good judges. He was 
long a highly esteemed teacher of vocal music in Newport, 
where many resorted to his school for improvement in this de- 
lightful art. One of the most extraordinary things in the his- 
tory of this man, was his ability to speak his vernacular tongue 
with ease and fluency at the age of thirty, when he had been 
absent from his country for sixteen years, having been brought 
away when only fourteen years of age. His uncommon talents 
attracted the attention of Dr. Hopkins, and his ardent piety 
gained his high esteem. He, therefore, marked him out as 
a suitable person to be sent as a missionary to Africa, and 
set himself to work to obtain his freedom, in which, after some 
time, he was successful. But there is a circumstance connected 
with his emancipation which is so extraordinary, that if it were 
not so well authenticated we should hesitate to mention it; 
as to some of our readers it may probably savour too much of 
enthusiasm. But in fact it is nothing else than an evident and 
somewhat extraordinary answer to prayer. Gardner was the 
slave of. Captain Gardner, whose name he assumed. By the 
indulgence of his master he was allowed to labour for his own 
profit, in whatever scraps of time he could save from his daily 



58 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

work ; and all that he gained was devoted to the obtahiing his 
own freedom, and that of his family. Being often discouraged 
at the slow progress he made, he was advised by a pious deacon 
of Dr. Hopkins's church to try the efficacy of prayer and fast- 
ing, and see if he would not get along more successfully than 
by labour alone. In compliance with this advice, having 
gained a day, he determined to spend it in fasting and prayer, 
but communicated his purpose to no one but Dr. Hopkins and 
a few pious friends. His master, totally ignorant of the man- 
ner in which his slave was occupied, sent for him about four 
o'clock in the afternoon, but was told that Gardner was engaged 
about his own business, this being his gained day. "No mat- 
ter," replied his master, "call him." And when the slave ap- 
peared, he put into his hand a paper on which was written the 
following words, "I, James Gardner, of Newport, Rhode 
Island, do this day manumit and release, forever, Newport 
Gardner, his wife and children." Some conditions were an- 
nexed which were of easy performance. The slave, thus un- 
expectedly emancipated, expressed, of course, fervent gratitude 
to his late master, who now had become his benefactor, but 
still warmer thanks to his Father in heaven, who had so sig- 
nally answered the prayers which he had been offering up that 
day for his freedom, even before he had finished his supplica- 
tions. 

During a long life, this man had his mind directed to Africa, 
and when the colony of Liberia was established, though ad- 
vanced to his eightieth year, yet he embraced the opportunity 
of going to his native country. With a view to his going to 
Liberia, he and several others were, in Boston, constituted into 
a Christian church, of which he was immediately ordained a 
deacon, together with Salmur Nubia, another of Dr. Hopkins's 
promising young Africans, of whom mention has already been 
made. The solemn exercises connected with the constitution 
of this church, were conducted by Dr. Jenks, Dr. Wisner, Dr. 
Edwards, and Dr. S. E. D wight. The public solemnity was 
closed by an anthem, composed by Deacon Gardner, and set to 
words selected from several passages of the sacred Scriptures, 
exceedingly appropriate to the interesting occasion. This little 
band of African Christians embarked for Africa on the 7th of 
January, 1826, in company with the Rev. Horace Sessions. 

This undertaking of Deacon Gardner, to return to his na- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 59 

tive land, at an age so advanced, was not the effect of any- 
sudden impulse or temporary excitement, but was the break- 
ing out of that flame of love to Christ and to his kinsmen 
according to the flesh, which had been enkindled in his bosom, 
in Dr. Hopkins's study, half a century before. Thus, after an 
absence of more than threescore years, this patriarchal man 
set sail for Liberia, to assist in laying the foundation of an in- 
fant colony, which he hoped would be the germ of a great and 
free and happy republic, which might shine as a light to illu- 
mine the dark regions of Africa, and be an asylum for the colour- 
ed race in this country, who are here destitute of those privi- 
leges, and that respectability which the colonists in Liberia so 
richly enjoy. 

What the end was, of this remarkable man, we have not been 
informed. He was too far advanced in years to take an active 
part in the affairs of the colony, but his example and his coun- 
sels may have been of eminent service to those engaged in this 
arduous enterprise. 



CHAPTER IV. 

HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

The inconsistency of holding men in slavery, while we our- 
selves were contending for liberty at the peril of every thing 
dear, could not but strike the minds of reflecting persons. No 
sooner, therefore, was independence declared, than several of 
the States took measures, gradually to put an end to slavery, 
by enacting laws, that all children born of slaves, after a cer- 
tain date, should be free, when they arrived at a certain age. 
When the slaves were few in number, there was no difliculty 
in this measure for the gradual emancipation of the slaves; but 
in the Southern States, where they were very numerous, the 
obstacles to the passing of such laws were so formidable, that 
the thing was never seriously proposed in any of their legisla- 
tive bodies. The obstacles were of two kinds. First, the oppo- 



60 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

sition of the slave holders themselves. As under the laws of 
these States, they had acqnhed this species of property, for 
which they or their forefathers had paid a valuable considera- 
tion; they insisted that the legislature had no right to deprive 
them of this property, without giving them a compensation for 
the same; and as the majority of the people, in all the Southern 
States, are slave-holders, it is evident, that until the people were 
willing, the legislatures, consisting of their representatives, an- 
nually chosen, could do nothing towards the accomplishment of 
this object. The other obstacle, which rendered the thing inex- 
pedient, even with the more enlightened and benevolent, who 
were the sincere friends of emancipation, was the difficulty of dis- 
posing of them, when liberated. The sentiment is almost univer- 
sal, among all classes of people in the Southern States, that it will 
never do to emancipate the slaves, and permit them to remain 
in the country. Hence, almost every scheme of emancipation 
in the south, has been accompanied by some plan of removal ; or 
which is the same thing, colonization, into some country or ter- 
ritory remote from their present owners. This subject, however, 
engaged the earnest attention of the leading politicians of the 
country. Mr. Jefferson, in his Notes on Virginia, recommends 
the emancipation of the slaves by the most powerful arguments ; 
but it has been always understood that his plan was to remove 
them to some part of the extensive country north-west of the 
Ohio, which then belonged to the state of Virginia, and was en- 
tirely unoccupied, except by the Indians, and a few scattered 
French settlements. No effort, however, was ever made by Mr. 
Jeflerson to carry his views into efiect. If any man could, by his 
influence, have secured the passing of a law, emancipating the 
blacks in Virginia, that man was Mr. Jeflerson. But he saw, 
no doubt, that the obstacles in the way of emancipation, were 
insurmountable. He did no more, therefore, than give utter- 
ance to his own deliberate opinions. He did not even give 
liberty to his own slaves. Perhaps he was convinced, before 
his death, that their condition would not be alleviated by giv- 
ing them their freedom ; as he had before him many examples 
of the degraded and unhappy situation of the free negroes in 
Virginia. Even those emancipated by the last will of General 
Washington, are said to have been great losers by the acquisi- 
tion of their freedom. Mr. Jefferson, however, always mani- 
fested a decided approbation of the African colonization scheme ; 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 61 

and if he had been so disposed, he might have sent his slaves to 
Liberia. But the truth is, that Mr. Jefferson was so deeply in- 
volved in debt, at the time of his death, that no act of his in 
granting them liberty, would have taken effect, as they would 
have been seized to satisfy the demands of his creditors. 

As well as can be ascertained by a diligent research, the first 
man who ever seriously contemplated sending a colony to 
Africa, was Doctor Thornton, a native of Virginia, but at the 
time when he conceived this plan, a resident of the city of 
Washington, where he is still remembered, as at the same time 
a man of many eccentrichies, arising from a vivid genius, and 
a real philanthropist. Dr. Thornton not only formed a plan of 
African colonization, but actually attempted its execution, in- 
tending to become himself the leader of the colony. Therefore, 
in the year 1787, he published an "Address" to the free people 
of colour in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, inviting them to 
accompany him to the western coast of Africa, with the view of 
planting a colony in the land of their forefathers. Although 
Dr. Hopkins's plan preceded this many years, yet his was rather 
a missionary, than a colonization scheme; although, as we have 
seen, it probablf suggested the first idea of the colony at Sierra 
Leone. But Dr. Thornton was undoubtedly the first who con- 
ceived, and attempted to carry into effect, a plan for a colony of 
free coloured people on the western coast of Africa. The en- 
terprise, as might have been expected, fell through for want of 
funds to carry it into effect. But it is pleasant to know, that 
this benevolent and enterprising man lived to see the Coloniza- 
tion Society formed, and in successful operation ; to which he 
gave his cordial approbation, and was one of its first mana- 
gers. 

The condition of the slaves occupied the attention of many 
serious, sagacious men in Virginia, about the close of the last 
century. It was often a subject of free conversation among 
enlightened men, and their opinions generally were favourable 
to the emancipation of the slaves, both on principles of justice 
and sound policy. But the great difficulty was to know what 
disposal to make of them. To obviate this difficulty various 
plans were devised. Among the rest, the writer, then a resi- 
dent of Virginia, remembers to have heard a very plausible 
plan for the emancipation of the slaves, and for their coloniza- 
tion in the northwestern territory, given in detail by William 
6 



62 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Craighead, Esq., presiding magistrate in Lunenberg county, 
Virginia. Mr. Craighead was a native of the state of Dela- 
ware, but in early life settled in Hanover, where he became an 
elder in the church of the Rev. Samuel Davies, and an intimate 
friend of that celebrated evangelical preacher. During the 
revolutionary war he was an ardent, active patriot, and had 
the honour of suggesting some measures to promote unity and 
efficiency among the Americans, which were generally adopted. 
He was a man of sanguine temperament, strong good sense, 
and warm piety. 

The outlines of Mr. Craighead's plans as nearly as can be 
remembered were, that emancipation should be gradual, and that 
none should be sent to the new colony but such as were fitted 
for colonists by some suitable preparatory education. At first 
the numbers sent were to be small, but as the colony increased, 
and as the number prepared by a suitable education were mul- 
tiplied, the removal of them might go on in a ratio increasing 
every year. Their relation to the government of the United 
States was to be something analogous to that in which the In- 
dians now stand. This plan related entirely to the slaves in 
Virginia, though equally applicable to other Sfates. 

That the subject of emancipating the slaves was a matter of 
serious inquiry and discussion in the State of Virginia, toward 
the close of the last century, is evident from the fact, that St. 
George Tucker, one of the Judges of the Court of Appeals, 
professor of law in the College of William and Mary, and the 
editor of Blackstone's Commentaries, devised and published a 
plan for the gradual emancipation of all the slaves in the State. 
And although his scheme was by few considered feasible, yet 
the proposal of emancipation from such high authority created 
no excitement in the country. The plan was scanned, and its 
provisions discussed with as much calmness as ordinary politi- 
cal measures, in which all the citizens had an interest. 

It will not, after what has been said, appear surprising that 
the Virginia Legislature, as early as December 1800, should 
have turned their attention to the subject of colonization. Their 
immediate object, doubtless, was to get rid of the free negroes, 
who were considered as not only useless members of society, 
but as exercising a very pernicious influence on the character 
of the slaves. Their action on the subject appears to have 
been not- only secret, but extremely cautious. The resolution 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



63 



which they passed almost unanimously, was couched in the 
following words, viz : 

In the House of Delegates, December 31, 1800. 
Resolved, That the Governor be requested to correspond with 
the President of the United States on the subject of purchasing 
lands without the limits of this State, whither persons obnoxious 
to the laws or dangerous to the peace of society may be 
removed. 

A copy from the House of Delegates. 

WILLIAM WIRT, Cleric, H. D. 

Taking this resolution by itself, we should not suppose that 
it had any reference to the free negroes, but that it was the 
object of the House to obtain a penal settlement for such per- 
sons as might be convicted of high crimes or misdemeanours 
against the laws of the State. 

Mr. Monroe, being then Governor of Virginia, in compliance 
with the foregoing resolution, addressed the following letter to 
Mr. Jefferson, then President of the United States : 

Richmond, June 15, 1801. 

Sir : 1 enclose you a resolution of the General Assembly of 
the Commonwealth, of the last session, by which it is made 
my duty to correspond with you on the subject of obtaining, 
by purchase, lands without the limits of this State, to which 
persons obnoxious to the laws or dangerous to the peace of 
society may be removed. This resolution was produced by the 
conspiracy of the slaves which took place in this city and neigh- 
bourhood last year, and is applicable to that description only. 
The idea of such an acquisition was suggested by motives of 
humanity, it being intended by means thereof to provide an 
alternate mode of punishment for those described by the reso- 
lution, who, under the existing law, might be doomed to suffer 
death. It was deemed more humane, and, it is hoped, would 
be found in practice not less expedient, to transport such 
offenders beyond the hmits of the State. 

It seems to be the more obvious intention of the Legislature, 
as inferred from the resolution, to make the proposed acquisi- 
tion of land in the vacant Western territory of the United 
States ; but it does not appear to me to preclude one without 
the limits of the Union. If a friendly Power would designate 
a tract of country within its jurisdiction, either on this continent 
or a neighbouring island, to which we might send such persons, 



64 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

it is not improbable the Legislature might prefer it. In any 
event, an alternative could not be otherwise than desirable, 
since, after maturely weighing the condition and advantages of 
each position, the Legislature might still prefer that which 
appeared to it most eligible. 

It is proper to remark, that the latter part of the resolution, 
which proposes the removal of such persons as are dangerous 
to the peace of society, maybe understood as comprising many 
to whom the preceding member does not apply. Whether the 
Legislature intended to give it a more extensive import, or, 
rather, whether it contemplated removing from the country any 
but culprits condemned to suffer death, I will not pretend to 
decide. But, if the more enlarged construction of the resolu- 
tion is deemed the true one, it furnishes, in my opinion, a strong 
additional motive why the Legislature, in disposing of this 
great concern, should command an alternative of places. As 
soon as the mind emerges, in contemplating the subject,beyond 
the contracted scale of providing a mode of punishment for 
offenders, vast and interesting objects present themselves to 
view. It is impossible not to involve in it the condition of 
those people, the embarrassment they have already occasioned 
us, and are still likely to subject us to. We perceive an exist- 
ing evil, which commenced under our colonial system, with 
which we are not properly chargeable, or, if at all, not in the 
present degree ; and we acknowledge the extreme difficulty in 
remedying it. At this point the mind rests with suspense, and 
surveys with anxiety obstacles which become more serious as 
we approach them. It is in vain for the Legislature to deliberate 
on the subject, in the extent of which it is capable, with a view 
to adopt the system of policy which appears to it most wise 
and just, if it has not the means of executing it. To lead to a 
sound decision, and make the result a happy one, it is necessary 
that the field of practicable expedients be opened to its election 
on the widest possible scale. 

Under this view of the subject, I shall be happy to be advised 
by you whether a tract of land in the Western territory of the 
United States can be procured for this purpose, in what quarter, 
and on what terms ? And, also, whether a friendly Power will 
permit us to remove such persons within its limits, with like 
precision as to the place and conditions ? It is possible a 
friendly Power may be disposed to promote a population of the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION 65 

kind referred to, and willing to facilitate the measure by co- 
operating with us in the accomplishment of it. It may be con- 
venient for you to sound such Powers, especially those more 
immediately in our neighbourhood, on the subject, in all the 
views which may appear to you to be suitable. 

You will perceive that I invite your attention to a subject of 
great delicacy and importance, one which, in a peculiar degree, 
involves the future peace, tranquillity, and happiness, of the 
good people of this Commonwealth. I do it, however, in a 
confidence that you will take that interest in it which we are 
taught to expect from your conduct through life, which gives 
you so many high claims to our regard. 

With great respect, I have the honour to be, &c. 

JAMES MONROE. 

Thomas Jefferson, 

President of the United States. 

From this letter of Mr. Monroe, it does appear, that the im- 
mediate occasion of adopting the foregoing resolution, in the 
secret session of the House of Delegates, was a recent alarming 
conspiracy of the negroes, in the city of Richmond itself, in 
which two black preachers of the Baptist denomination were 
the leaders. So many persons were more or less involved in 
this conspiracy, which had nearly come to maturity, that it 
seemed desirable to the Legislature to have some territory at 
their command, whither such as were not principals in the con- 
spiracy might be sent, instead of inflicting capital punishment 
on so many. Whether any ulterior views were entertained by 
the House in regard to the free people of colour, in general, or 
even looking distantly to the removal of the slave population at 
a future time, does not appear. Mr. Monroe does, indeed, ap- 
pear to have extended his views thus far ; as part of his letter 
is taken up in deploring the evil of slavery, which had in their 
colonial state been inflicted on them. Mr. Jefl'erson's answer 
to Mr. Monroe's letter is dated November 24, 1801, and is as 
follows, viz. 

Washington, November 24, 1801. 

Dear Sir: I had not been unmindful of your letter of June 
15th, covering a resolution of the House of Representatives of 
Virginia, and referred to in yours of the 17th instant. The im- 
portance of the subject, and the belief that it gave us time for 
consideration till the next meeting of the Legislature, have in- 
6* 



66 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

duced me to defer the answer to this date. You will perceive 
that some circumstances connected with the subject, and neces- 
sarily presenting themselves to view, would be improper but 
for your and the legislative ear. Their publication might have 
an ill ejfect in more than one quarter ; in confidence of attention 
to this, I shall indulge greater freedom in writing. 

Common malefactors, I presume, make no part of the object 
of that resolution. Neither their numbers, nor the nature of 
their offences, seem to require any provisions beyond those 
practised heretofore, and found adequate to the repression of 
ordinary crimes. Conspiracy, insurgency, treason, rebellion, 
among that description of persons who brought on us the alarm, 
and on themselves the tragedy of ISOO, were doubtless within 
the view of every one ; but many, perhaps, comtemplated,and 
one expression of the resolution might comprehend, a much 
larger scope. Respect to both opinions makes it my duty to 
understand the resolution in all the extents of which it is sus- 
ceptible. 

The idea seems to be, to provide for these people by a pur- 
chase of land ; and it is asked whether such a purchase can be 
made of the United States, in their Western territory ? A very 
great extent of country north of the Ohio has been laid off into 
townships, and is now at market, according to the provisions of 
the acts of Congress, with which you are acquainted. There is 
nothing which would restrain the state of Virginia, either in 
the purchase or the application of these lands ; but a purchase 
by the acre might, perhaps, be a more expensive provision than 
the House of Representatives contemplated. Questions would 
also arise, whether the establishment of such a colony within 
our limits, and to become a part of our Union, would be desira- 
ble to the State of Virginia itself, or to the other States, espe- 
cially those who would be in its vicinity? 

Could we procure lands beyond the limits of the United 
States, to form a receptacle for these people ? On our North- 
ern boundary the country not occupied by British subjects is 
the property of Indian nations, whose titles would be to be ex- 
tinguished, with the consent of Great Britain ; and the new set- 
tlers would be British subjects. It is hardly to be believed that 
either Great Britain or the Indian proprietors have so disin- 
terested a regard for us as to be willing to relieve us by receiv- 
ing such a colony themselves ; and as much is it to be doubted 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 67 

whether that race of men could long exist in so rigorous a cli- 
mate. On our Western and Southern frontiers Spain holds an 
immense country; the occupancy of which, however, is in the 
Indian natives, except a few insulated spots possessed by Span- 
ish subjects. It is very questionable, indeed, whether the In- 
dians would sell — whether Spain would be willing to receive 
these people — and nearly certain that she would not alienate 
the sovereignty. The same question to ourselves would recur 
here also as did in the first case: Should we be willing to have 
such a colony in contact with us? However our precedent in- 
terests may restrain us within our own limits, it is impossible 
not to look forward to distant times, when our rapid multipli- 
cation will expand itself beyond those limits, and cover the 
whole Northern, if not the Southern continent, with a people 
speaking the same language, governed in similar forms and by 
similar laws. Nor can we contemplate with satisfaction either 
blot or mixture in that surface. Spain, France, and Portugal, 
hold possessions on the Southern continent, as to which I am 
not well enough informed to say how far they might meet our 
views. But either there or in the Northern continent, should 
the constituted authorities of Virginia fix their attention of pre- 
ference, I will have the dispositions of those Powers sounded 
in the first instance. 

The West Indies offer a more probable and practicable retreat 
for them. Inhabited already by a people of their own race and 
colour — climates congenial with their natural constitution, insu- 
lated from the other descriptions of men — nature seems to have 
formed these islands to become the receptacles of the blacks 
transplanted into this hemisphere. Whether we could obtain 
from the European sovereigns of those islands leave to send 
thither the persons under contemplation, I cannot say; but I 
think it more probable than the former proposition, because of 
their being already inhabited more or less by the same race. 
The most promising portion of them is the island of St. Domin- 
go, where the blacks are established into a sovereignty de 
facto, and have organized themselves under regular laws and 
government. I should conjecture that their present ruler might 
be willing on many considerations to receive even that descrip- 
tion which would be exiled for acts deemed criminal by us, but 
meritorious perhaps by him. The possibility that these exiles 
might stimulate and conduct vindictive or predatory descents 



68 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

on our coast, and facilitate concert with their brethren remain- 
ing here, looks to a state of things between that island and us 
not probable, on a contemplation of our relative strength, and 
of the disproportion daily growing ; and it is over weighed by 
the humanity of the measures proposed, and the advantages 
of disembarrassing ourselves of such dangerous characters. 
Africa would offer a last and undoubted resort, if all others 
more desirable should fail us. Whenever the Legislature of 
Virginia shall have brought its mind to a point, so that I may 
know exactly what to propose to foreign authorities, I will exe- 
cute their wishes with fidelity and zeal. I hope, however, 
they will pardon me for suggesting a single question for their 
own consideration. When we contemplate the variety of 
countries and of sovereigns towards which we may direct our 
views, the vast revolutions and changes of circumstances which 
are now in a course of progression, the possibilities that arrange- 
ments now to be made with a view to any particular place may 
at no great distance of time be totally deranged by a change of 
sovereignty, of government, or of other circumstances, it will 
be for the Legislature to consider whether, after they shall have 
made all those general provisions which may be fixed by legis- 
lative authority, it would be reposing too much confidence in 
their Executive to leave the place of relegation to be decided 
on by them, and executed with the aid of the Federal Execu- 
tive? They could accommodate their arrangements to the ac- 
tual state of things in which countries or powers may be found 
to exist at that day, and may prevent the effect of the law from 
being defeated by intervening changes. This, however, is for 
them to decide. Our duty will be to respect their decision. 

Accept assurances, &c. 

THOMAS JEFFERSON. 
Governor Monroe. 

From this letter it appears that Mr. Jefferson was at a loss to 
understand the full meaning and extent of the resolution; but 
judged it best to allow to it the utmost latitude of construction. 
His objections to the purchase of any territory within the limits 
of the United States were judicious, and his preference of the 
West Indies, especially of St. Domingo, seems to have been 
founded on just views. 

Upon the reception of Mr. Jefferson's letter, Mr. Monroe 
communicated it to the House of Delegates, accompanied with 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



69 



the following message, evidently intended to elicit a more full 
expression of the ohject which they had in view, in their first 
resolution. The message is as follows: 

Richmond, Deceinher 21,1801. 

Sir: I have the pleasure to communicate to the General As- 
sembly a copy of my correspondence with the President of the 
United States, in compliance with the resolution of 31st De- 
cember last, relative to the purchase of lands whhout the limits 
of the State, to which persons obnoxious to its laws or danger- 
ous to the peace of society may be removed. As it was known 
that the United States had lands for sale in the territory lying 
between the Ohio and Mississippi, a proposition to make the 
acquisition bv purchase conveyed the idea of a preference for a 
tract in that quarter; but as such preference was not declared, 
and a liberal construction of the resolution admitted a greater 
scope, I thought it mv duty to open the subject in that light to 
the President. His reply has stated fully and ably the objec- 
tions which occur to such an establishment within the limits of 
the United States. He also presents to view all the other 
places, on the continent and elsewhere, which furnish alterna- 
tives, with the advantages attending each, and assures us of the 
promptitude that he will cooperate in carrying into effect what- 
ever plan the Legislature may adopt in reference to the object 
contemplated. It remains, therefore, for the General Assembly 
to explain more fully the description of persons who are to be 
thus transported, and the place to which it is disposed to give 
the preference. As soon as its sense is declared on these points, 
1 shall hasten to communicate the same to the President, and 
shall not fail to lay the result before you at your next session. 
It is proper to add, that it is the wish of the President that the 
communication be considered as confidential. 

I am, sir, with great respect and esteem, your very humble 
servant, jAMES MONROE. 

This led to the following explanation by the House of Dele- 
gates, passed January 16, 1802, and agreed to by the Senate, 
January 23, 1802. 

In the House of Delegates, Saturday, January 16, 1802. 

The Legislature of the Commonwealth, by their resolution 
of December last, having authorized the Governor to corres- 



70 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

pond with the President of the United States relative to the 
purchase of lands without the limits of this State, to which per- 
sons obnoxious to the laws or dangerous to the peace of society 
might be removed, from which general expressions a difference 
of construction has prevailed, to reconcile which, recourse must 
be had to the actual state of things which produced the resolu- 
tion; therefore, resolved, that, as the resolution was not intend- 
ed to embrace offenders for ordinary crimes, to which the laws 
have been found equal, but only those for conspiracy, insur- 
gency, treason, and rebellion, among those particular persons 
who produced the alarm in this State in the fall of 1800, the 
Governor be requested, in carrying the said resolution into 
effect upon the construction here given, to request the President 
of the United States, in procuring the lands, to prefer the conti- 
nent of Africa, or any of the Spanish or Portuguese settlements 
in South America. 

Resolved, also, that the Governor be requested to correspond 
with the President of the United States, for the purpose of 
obtaining a place without the limits of the same, to which free 
negroes or mulattoes, and such negroes or mulattoes as may be 
emancipated,' may be sent or choose to remove as a place of 
asylum; and that it is not the wish of the Legislature to obtain, 
on behalf of those who may remove or be sent thither, the 
sovereignty of such place. Resolved, also, that the Governor 
lay before the next General Assembly the result of his commu- 
nication, to be subject to their control. 

WILLIAM WIRT, C. H. D. 

January 23, 1802. — Agreed to by the Senate. 

H. BROOKE, C. S. 

A copy. — Test: 

JAMES PLEASANTS, Jr. C. H. D. 

Whatever might have been the views of the preceding Legis- 
lature, the present House of Delegates appear to have contem- 
plated the acquisition of a territory to which all free negroes, 
who should be willing, might be sent; and they also extended 
their views to such free negroes, and mulattoes as might here- 
after be emancipated. They seem also to have abandoned the 
idea of a colony within the limits of the United States, and ex- 
pressed their preference to the continent of Africa, or to some 
place in South America. Their objection to the West Indies, 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 71 

and especially to St. Domingo, though not expressed, is obvious. 
That island was too near to the United States. 

Here the matter seems to have rested, until the year 1804, 
when Mr. Jefferson addressed a letter to Mr. Page, the then 
governor of Virginia, in which he himself relinquishes the idea 
of St. Domingo, and speaks of the territory of Louisiana, just 
purchased by the American government. The letter is as fol- 
lows: 

Washington, December 27, 1804. 

Dear Sir: Resuming the subject of the resolutions of the 
House of Delegates of December 31st, 1800, January 16th, 
1802, and February 3d, 1804, I have it not in my power to say 
that any change of circumstances has taken place which enables 
me yet to propose any specific asylum for the persons who are 
the subjects of our correspondence. The island of St. Domingo, 
our nearest and most convenient recourse, is too unsettled in the 
conditions of its existence to be looked to as yet for any per- 
manent arrangements; and the European nations have terri- 
tories in the same quarter, and possess the same kind of popu- 
lation. Whether the inhabitants of our late acquisition beyond 
the Mississippi, or the National Legislature, would consent that 
a portion of that country should be set apart for the persons 
contemplated, is not within my competence to say. 

My last information as to Sierra Leone is, that the company 
was proposing to deliver up their colony to their Government. 
Should this take place, it might furnish occasion for another 
eflbrt to procure an incorporation of ours into it. An attack 
during the war has done the settlement considerable injury. 

I beg you to be assured that, having the object of the House 
of Delegates sincerely at heart, I will keep it under my constant 
attention, and omit no occasion which may occur of giving it 
effect. 

Accept my affectionate salutations, and assurances of great 
respect and consideration. 

THOMAS JEFFERSON. 
Governor Page. 

This letter led to the following resolution of the House of 
Delegates, dated December 3, 1804, and agreed to by the Sen- 
ate, January 22, 1805. 

General Assembly begun and held at the Capitol in the city 
of Richmond, Virginia, on Monday the third day of December, 



72 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four, 
and of the Commonwealth the twenty-ninth: 

Resolved, That the Senators of this State in the Congress of 
the United States be instructed, and the Representatives be re- 
quested, to exert their best efforts for the purpose of obtaining 
from the General Government a competent portion of territory, 
in the country of Louisiana, to be appropriated to the residence 
of such people of colour as have been or shall be emancipated 
in Virginia, or may hereafter become dangerous to the public 
safety: Proz^zWec?, That no contract or arrangement respecting 
such territory shall be obligatory on this Commonwealth until 
ratified by the Legislature. 

H. HOLMES. 

Speaker of the House of Delegates. 

Agreed to January 22d, 1805. 

C. TAYLOR, 

Speaker of the Senate. 

A copy. — Test: 

JAMES PLEASANTS, Jr., C. H. D. 

On the suggestion contained in Mr. Jefferson's letter, the 
Legislature had their attention entirely turned to a portion of 
the vacant territory of Louisiana. And as their resolution con- 
tained instructions to the senators in Congress, and a request to 
the representatives of the State, to endeavour to procure such a 
territory, it was sent by Governor Page to them, accompanied 
by the following note, viz. 

Richmond, February 2, 1805. 

Gentlemen : I have the honour to enclose a resolution of 
the General Assembly, for an explanation of which I beg leave 
to refer you to the copies of letters which passed between the 
President of the United States and Governor Monroe, and to 
one written by the President to me, and by this mail transmit- 
ted to our Senators in Congress; but, for more satisfactory in- 
formation, I would refer you to the President himself, to whom 
I shall apologize for requesting you to trouble him on this oc- 
casion ; but 1 know that he will with pleasure give you all the 
information you may require. From the nature of the delicate 
business contemplated in the resolution, you will see the pro- 
priety of its being considered confidential. 

I am, gentlemen, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

JOHN PAGE. 

The Representatives /rom Virginia in Congress. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 73 

To render our history complete, it is proper to mention here, 
that Ann MitHin, no doubt of the Society of Friends, had con- 
ceived the plan of a colony on the western coast of Africa, and 
through a Mr. Lynd, applied to Mr. Jefferson for his opinion, 
respectitig the practicability of such an enterprise. Mr. Jeffer- 
son's answer is interesting, and contains several important 
items of information, no where else to be found. The letter is 
as follows. 

MoNTicELLo, January 21, 1811. 

Sir: You have asked my opinion on the proposition of Ann 
Mifflui, to take measures for procuring on the coast of Africa an 
establishment to which the people of colour of these States 
might, from time to time, be colonized, under the auspices of 
different governments. Having long ago made up my mind 
on this subject,'! have no hesitation in saying that I have ever 
thought that the most desirable measure which could be 
adopted for gradually drawing off this part of our popula- 
tion — most advantageous for themselves as well as for us. 
Going from a country possessing all the useful arts, they might 
be the means of transplanting them among the inhabitants of 
Africa; and would thus carry back to the country of their 
origin the seeds of civilization, which might render their so- 
journment here a blessing in the end to that country. 

I received, in the last year of my entering into the adminis- 
tration of the general government, a letter from the Governor 
of Virginia, consulting me, at the request of the Legislature of 
the State, on the means of procuring some such asylum, to 
which these people might be occasionally sent. I proposed to 
him the establishment of Sierra Leone, in which a private com- 
pany in England had already colonized a number of negroes, 
and particularly the fugitives from these States during the revo- 
lutionary war; and at the same time suggested, if that could 
not be obtained, some of the Portuguese possessions in South 
America as most desirable. 

The subsequent Legislature approving these ideas, I wrote 
the ensuing year (1802) to Mr. King, our minister in London, 
to endeavour to negotiate with the Sierra Leone company, and 
induce them to receive such of these people as might be colon- 
ized thither. He opened a correspondence with Mr. W 

and Mr. Thornton, secretary of the company, on the subject ; 
and, in 1803, I received, through Mr. King, the result; which 
7 



74 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

was that the colony was going on in but a languishing condi- 
tion; that the funds of the company were likely to fail, as they 
received no return of profit to keep them up; that they were 
then in treaty with the government to take the estabhshment 
off their hands; but that in no event should they be \\«illing to 
receive more of these people from the United States, as it was 
that portion of settlers who had gone from the United States, 
who, by their idleness and turbulence, had kept the settlement 
in constant danger of dissolution, which could not have been 
prevented, but for the aid of the Maroon negroes from the 
West Indies, who were more industrious and orderly than the 
others, and supported the authority of the government and its 
laws. 

I think I learned afterwards that the British government had 
taken the colony into their own hands, and I believe it still 
exists. 

The effort which I made with Portugal, to obtain an estab- 
lishment from them, within their colonies in South America, 
proved also abortive. 

You inquired, further, "whether I would use my endeavours 
to procure such an establishment, secure against violence from 
other powers, and particularly the French." Certainly, I 
shall be ivilling to do any thing I can to give it effect and 
safety. 

But I am but a private individual, and could only use en- 
deavours wuh individuals; whereas the National Government 
can address themselves at once to those of Europe, to obtain 
the desired security, and will unquestionably be ready to exert 
its influence with those nations to effect an object so benevo- 
lent in itself, and so important to a great portion of its constitu- 
ents; indeed, nothing is more to be ivished than that the 
United States would themselves undertake to make such an 
establishment on the coast of Jifrica. 

Exclusive of motives of humanity, the commercial advan- 
tages to be derived from it might defray all its expenses; but 
for this the national mind is not prepared. It may, perhaps, be 
doubted whether many of these people would voluntarily con- 
sent to such an exchange of situation, and but few of those who 
are advanced to a certain age in habits of slavery would be 
capable of governing themselves. This should not, however, 
discourage the experiment, nor the early trial of it. And pro- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 75 

positions should be made, with all the prudent caution and 
attention requisite to reconcile it to the interest, the safety, and 
prejudice of all parties. 

Accept the assurance of my respect and esteem. 

THOMAS JEFFERSON. 

This letter not only informs us of the efforts made by Mr. 
Jefferson, to obtain a suitable territory for the colonization of 
the free people of colour, but also gives us to miderstand the 
deep interest which he felt in the subject, and his readiness to 
cooperate with the Legislature of his native State, in carrying 
their views into full effect. 

All the proceedings of the Legislature of Virginia were in 
secret sessions; and their attempts to acquire a suitable territory 
for a colony having failed, nothing further was done until the 
year 1816, when Charles Fenton Mercer, Esq., having become 
a member of the Virginia Legislature, heard, by mere accident, 
of the secret resolutions which had been passed at a former 
session, and having satisfied himself of their nature, by refer- 
ence to the recorded minutes of the House, resolved to bring 
up the subject anew. But as we have Mr. Mercer's own ac- 
count of this matter in a speech delivered at a public dinner 
given to him in Charleston, Kenhawa county, we will give it 
in his own words. 

Having been complimented, among other things, on account 
of the part which he had taken in forming the Colonization 
Society, he replied as follows: 

" With respect to the first of them, (the secret resolutions,) 
I can truly say, that the intelligence broke in upon me like a 
ray of ligln through the profoundest gloom, and by a mere 
accident which occurred in the spring of 1816, that upon two 
several occasions, very early in the present century, the Gen- 
eral Assembly of Virginia had invited the aid of the United 
States to obtain a territory, beyond their limits, whereon to 
colonize certain portions of our coloured population. For the 
evidence of these facts, then new to me, I was referred to the 
clerk of the Senate, by the friend who revealed them, and in 
the private records of that body I found them verified. 

" It was then too near the close of the session of the Legis- 
lature to attempt immediate action on the subject; but in a few 
weeks after this, I concerted with Francis S. Key, of George- 
town, and Elias B. Caldwell, of Washington, in the District of 



76 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Columbia, a plan for doing so ; and bound to no concealment 
myself, though the facts which had been disclosed to me were 
from the secret journals of the Senate, I made them publicly 
known in several States, as well as through our own, on my 
way to the North during the ensuing summer, receiving every 
where promises of pecuniary aid, and of active cooperation, 
provided, as I announced it to be my intention, I renewed a 
similar proposition at the next session of our General Assembly. 
''Accordingly, in December 1816, prior to the organization of 
the American Colonization Society, but with a view to its ap- 
proaching formation, of which I was apprised by Mr. Key, I 
presented to the House of Delegates a resolution which stands 
recorded on its journal, asking the aid of the general govern- 
ment, to procure in Africa or elsewhere, beyond the limits of 
the United States, a territory on which to colonize our free 
people of colour who might be disposed to avail themselves of 
such an asylum, and such of our slaves as their masters might 
please to emancipate. This resolution passed the House of 
Delegates with but nine, and the Senate with but one, dissent- 
ing voice. It was discussed and adopted in secret session, but 
the injunction of secrecy was taken off at the instance of the 
mover. The American Colonization Society was formed in the 
city of Washington early in the ensuing month of January." 

The following were the resolutions proposed by General 
Mercer, and adopted by the Legislature of Virginia. 

"Whereas, the General Assembly of Virginia have repeatedly 
sought to obtain an asylum beyond the limits of the United 
States, for such persons of colour as have been, or may be, 
emancipated under the laws of this commonwealth, but have 
hitherto found all their efforts frustrated, either by the disturbed 
state of other nations, or domestic causes eqiially unpropitious 
to its success ; 

" They now avail themselves of a period when peace has 
healed the wounds of humanity, and the principal nations of 
Europe have concurred with the government of the United 
States, in abolishing the African Slave Trade, (a traffic which 
this commonwealth, both before and since the Revolution, zeal- 
ously sought to exterminate,) to renew this effort. Therefore, 
''Resolved, That the Executive be requested to correspond 
with the President of the United States, for the purpose of ob- 
taining a territory on the coast of Africa, or at some other 
place, not within any of the States, or territorial government of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. il 

the United States, to serve for an asylum of such persons of 
colour as are now free, and may desire the same ; and for those 
who may hereafter be emancipated within this commonwealth, 
and that the Senators and Representatives of this State in the 
Congress of the United States, be requested to exert their best 
efforts to aid the President of the United States in the attain- 
ment of the above objects; 

"Provided, That no contract or arrangement, respecting such 
territory, shall be obligatory on this commonwealth until ratified 
by the Legislature, 

" After organizing in my immediate neighbourhood several 
auxiliary societies, at the request of the managers of the parent 
society in Washington, I repaired to the city of Baltimore, 
where, by sundry addresses to the people, in one of which I 
was sustained by Francis S. Key, and by personal applications 
to the citizens, in which I was accompanied from place to place 
for many days by Robert Purviance, we succeeded in obtaining 
a subscription of near S5000, to defray the expenses of the 
expedition of Messrs. Mills and Burgess, to explore the coast 
of Africa in order to select a suitable place for the proposed 
colony. At the same time Bishop Mead, of Virginia, was 
alike active and successful in procuring pecuniary aid for the 
same object in tjie opulent and liberal society in Frederick, 
Virginia, of which he was then the pastor." 

As these resolutions contain the very principles on which the 
Colonization Society was formed, and were prior, in time, to the 
formation of the American Colonization Society, it might, at first 
view, seem that the honour of being the father of the enterprise 
of right belonged to this gentleman, especially as it is more 
than probable that Dr. Finley, the brother-in-law of Elias B. 
Caldwell, Esq., had heard, during the summer of 1816, of what 
had been secretly transacted in the General Assembly of Vir- 
ginia, and of Mr. Mercer's intention again to bring the subject 
before that body at the earliest opportunity. The truth, how- 
ever, is, that Dr. Finley had the condition of the free people of 
colour on his mind early in the year 1S15 ; for we find a letter 
from him addressed to John 0. Mumford, Esq. of the city of 
New York, dated February 15, 1815, of which the following 
is an extract : 

" Dear Sir— The longer I live to see the wretchedness of 
men, the more I admire the virtue of those who desire, and 
7* 



78 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

with patience labour, to execute plans for the relief of the 
wretched. On this subject the state of the free blacks has very 
much occupied my mind. Their number increases greatly, and 
their wretchedness, as appears to me. Every thing connected 
with their condition, including their colour, is against them. 
Nor is there much prospect that their state can ever be greatly 
meliorated while they shall continue among us. Could not the 
rich and benevolent devise means to form a colony on some 
part of the coast of Africa, similar to that of Sierra Leone, 
which might gradually induce many free blacks to go and settle, 
devising for them the means of getting there, and protection 
and support until they were established ? Could they be sent 
back to Africa, a threefold benefit would arise. We should be 
clear of them — we should send to Africa a population partly 
civilized and christianized, for its benefit — and our blacks 
themselves would be put in a better situation. Thhik much on 
this subject, and then write me when you have leisure." 

From the above letter, it is manifest that Dr. Finley had the 
scheme of a colony of free blacks on the western coast of 
Africa fully in his mind more than a year before Mr. Mercer 
knew any thing about the secret resolutions of the Virginia 
Legislature. 

As the Rev. Dr. Robert Finley must ever hold a conspicuous 
place in the history of African colonization, whatever may be 
the result of the enterprise, it cannot but be gratifying to the 
reader to know some particulars respecting him. Dr. Finley 
was a native of the borough of Princeton, New Jersey, to 
which place his parents had come from Scotland, in company 
with the Rev. Dr. Witherspoon, who was called to preside over 
the College of New Jersey, situated in that place. His parents 
were pious and respectable, but poor. Their son giving evidence 
of good capacity, was put to learning, and received his whole 
education under the tuition of Dr. Witherspoon and Dr. S. S. 
Smith. He was graduated when very young, and after spend- 
ing some time as tutor in the New Jersey College, he turned his 
attention to theology, and put himself on trial as a candidate 
for the ministry, under the Presbytery of New Brunswick, by 
which he was, in due course, licensed to preach the gospel. 
Soon after his licensure he received a call to settle in the con- 
gregation of Basking Ridge, in Morris county. New Jersey. 
Being convinced that his usefulness would be promoted by the 



HISTORY or AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 79 

institution of a classical academy in this healthy place, he at 
once engaged in the enterprise, and was, in an eminent degree 
successful as a teacher of youth. His academy became cele- 
brated through the country, and a number of the most eminent 
men in New Jersey, both in church and state, laid the founda- 
tion of their eminence in the thorough training which they 
received in this school. And its beneficial influence was not 
confined to the State, for many from other and distant parts of 
the country resorted to the Basking Ridge Academy. Neither 
was he negligent of the spiritual interests of the flock com- 
mitted to his pastoral care. He was an able, evangelical, and 
uncommonly successful preacher, and under his ministry a large 
number was gathered into his church. Indeed, no man seemed 
to be actuated by a warmer zeal for the advancement of reli- 
gion and the conversion of souls than Dr. Finley, and his 
preaching was of that popular and impressive kind, which is 
calculated to be generally profitable, as well as popular. 

Some time before he commenced the plan of a colony for the 
free blacks on the coast of Africa, his mind appeared to be 
much excited and deeply impressed with the importance of 
devising and carrying into execution some benevolent enter- 
prise. To a friend in Princeton, still living, he said one day, 
with ardent and strong emotion, "that when he considered 
what many others had eff'ected for the benefit of their suff'ering 
fellow creatures before they had reached his age, he was hum- 
bled and mortified to think how little he had done, and, at the 
same time, expressed a strong determination to engage in some 
benevolent enterprise which might tell upon the welfare of his 
fellow creatures." Not many months afterwards, meeting with 
the same friend, he disclosed to him the plan of a colony of 
free blacks on the western coast of Africa, and from this time 
seemed to have his mind completely occupied with the scheme, 
which he took every opportunity of proposing to his friends, 
endeavouring to show that the enterprise was not only good in 
itself, but practicable. All seemed to admit that the design 
was good, both as it related to the free negroes, and to the dark 
continent of Africa; but few of them could be persuaded that 
there was any probability that such a scheme could be carried 
into effect, and although they did not oppose it, they did not at 
once enter very zealously into his views. But his purpose was 
fixed, and nothing could dissuade him from making the attempt. 



so HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

And accordingly he began to take measures to have a coloniza- 
tion society formed. 'The first public meeting which ever took 
place to consider the subject of African colonization in this 
country, was held in the Presbyterian church in the borough of 
Princeton. It was called by Dr. Finley, when he explained to 
a small assemblage the plan of the society which he wished to 
be formed, and called on the writer to address the people^, He 
made some observations on the object aimed at. The meeting 
was small, but in the number of attendants were most of the 
professors of the College and of the Theological Seminary. It 
was apparent that the interest of those to whom the scheme 
was made known was increased the longer they thought 
upon it. 



CHAPTER V 



PROCEEDINGS AT WASHINGTON. 



Dr. Finley, having matured his plan for colonizing the free, 
people of colour on the western coast of Africa, proceeded to 
the city of Washington, when congress was in session, and 
having consulted with his friends, particularly with Elias B. 
Caldwell and Francis S. Key, Esqs., who entered with all their 
heart into his scheme, it was thought expedient to call a public 
meeting, and particularly to invite some of the most distin- 
guished men then in Washington to attend. Accordingly, on 
Uie 21st day of December, 1S16, the Hon. Henry Clay was 
called to the chair, and Mr. Thomas Dougherty acted as 
Secretary. 

INIr. Clay, on taking the chair, made an address, of which 
the following is the substance as reported for the National In- 
telligencer. After expressing his regret that Judge Washington 
was not present to preside, he said, " He understood the object 
of the present meeting to be, to consider of the propriety and 
practicability of colonizing the free people of colour in the 
United States, and of forming an association in relation to that 
object. That class of the mixed population of our country 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 81 

was peculiarly situated. They neither enjoyed the immunities 
of freemen, nor were they subject to the incapacities of slaves, 
but partook in some degree of the qualities of both. From 
their condition, and the unconquerable prejudices resulting from 
their colour, they never could amalgamate with the free whites 
of this country. It was desirable, tiierefore, both as it respected 
them and the residue of the population of the country, to draw 
them off. Various schemes of colonization had been thought of, 
and a part of our own continent, it was thought by some, might 
furnish a suitable establishment for them, but for his part he 
had a decided preference for some part of the coast of Africa. 
There ample provision might be made for the colony itself, and 
it might be rendered instrumental to the introduction, into that 
extensive quarter of the globe, of the arts, civilization and 
Christianity. There was a peculiar, a moral fitness in restoring 
them to the land of their fathers. And if, instead of the evils 
and sufferings which we have been the ianocent cause of 
inflicting upon the inhabitants of Africa, we can transmit to 
her the blessings of our arts, our civilization, and our rehgion, 
may we not hope that America will extinguish a great portion 
of that moral debt which she has contracted to that unfortunate 
continent? We should derive much encouragement in the 
prosecution of the object which had assembled us together, by 
the success which had attended the colony at Sierra Leone. 
That establishment had commenced about twenty or twenty-five 
years ago, under the patronage of private individuals in Great 
Britain. The basis of the population of the colony consisted 
of the fugitive slaves of the Southern States, during the revolu- 
tionary war, who had first been carried to Nova Scotia, and 
who afterwards, about the year 1792, upon their own applica- 
tion, almost in mass, had been transferred to the western coast 
of Africa. The colony after struggling with the most unheard of 
difficulties — difficulties resulting from the ignorance, barbarity, 
and prejudice of the natives, from the climate, (which were 
however, found to be not at all insurmountable,) from wars, 
African as well as European, and such as are incidental to all 
new settlements, had made a gradual and steady progress, utffi^ 
it has acquired a strength and stability which promises to crown 
the efl'orts of its founders with complete success. We have 
their experience before us, and can there be a nobler cause 
than that which, while it proposes to rid our own country of a 



82 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

useless and pernicious, if not a dangerous portion of its popu- 
lation, contemplates the spreading of the arts of civilized life, 
and the possible redemption from ignorance and barbarism of 
a benighted portion of the globe? 

" It was proper and necessary distinctly to state, that he un- 
derstood it constituted no part of the object of this meeting to 
touch or agitate, in the shgiitest degree, a delicate question con- 
nected with another portion of the coloured population of our 
country. It was not proposed to deliberate on, or consider at 
all, any question of emancipation, or that was connected with 
the abolition of slavery. It was upon that condition alone, he 
was sure, that many gentlemen from the south and west, whom 
he saw present, had attended,or could be expected to cooperate. 
It was upon that condition only that he himself attended. He 
would only further add, that he hoped in their deliberations 
they would be guided by that moderation, politeness, and defer- 
ence for the opinion of each other which were essential to any 
useful result. But when he looked around and saw the respecta- 
ble assemblage, and recollected the humane and benevolent 
purpose which had produced it, he felt it unnecessary to insist 
further on this topic." 

As soon as Mr. Clay had ended his address, Elias B. Cald- 
well, Esq., rose and spoke as follows: 

" I feel peculiar embarrassment in obtruding myself upon 
the notice of so large and respectable a meeting, in which I 
find some of the most distinguished characters of our country. 
I ask your indulgence in offering to the consideration of the 
meeting the resolutions which 1 hold in my hand, and to a few 
explanatory observations. The objects of the meeting have 
been feelingly and correctly stated by the honourable chairman. 
/The subject seems to be divided into — 

"1st. The expediency; and, 2dly, the practicability of the 
proposed plan. 

" The expediency of colonizing the free people of colour in 
the United Slates, may be considered in reference to its influ- 
ence on our civil institutions, on the morals and habits of the 
people, and on the future happiness of the free people of colour, f 
It has been a subject of unceasing regret and anxious solicitude 
among many of our best patriots and wisest statesmen, from 
the first establishment of our independence, that this class of 
people should remain a monument of reproach to those sacred 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 83 

piinciples of civil liberty which constitute the foundations of all 
our constitutions. We say in the Declaration of Independence, 
''that all men are created equal," and have certain "unaliena- 
ble rights." Yet it is considered impossible, consistently with 
the safety of the State, and it is certainly impossible with the 
present feelings towards these people, that they can ever be 
placed upon this equality, or admitted to the enjoyment of 
these " inalienable rights" while they remain mixed with us. 
Some persons may declaim and call it prejudice. No matter. 
Prejudice is as powerful a motive, and will as certainly exclude 
them as the soundest reason. Others may say they are free 
enough. If this is a matter of opinion let them judge — if of 
reason, let it be decided by our repeated and solemn declara- 
tions in all our public acts. This state of society unquestiona- 
bly tends, in various ways, to injure the morals and destroy the 
habits of industry among our people. This will be acknow- 
ledged by every person who has paid any attention to the sub- 
ject, and it seems to be so generally admitted that it would 
promote the happiness of the people, and the interest of the 
people, to provide a place where these people might be settled 
by themselves, that it is minecessary to dwell on this branch of 
the subject. 

"As to the blacks, it is manifest that their interest and happi- 
ness would be promoted by collecting them together where they 
would enjoy equal rights and privileges with those around 
them. A state of degradation is necessarily a state of unhap- 
piness. It debases the mind, it damps the energies of the soul, 
and represses every vigorous eflbrt towards moral or intellectual 
greatness. How can you expect from them any thing great or 
noble without the motives to stimulate, or the rewards to crown 
great and noble achievements? It not only prevents their 
climbing the steep and rugged paths of fame, but it prevents 
the enjoyment of the true happiness of calm contentment, 
satisfied with enjoying but a part of what w-e possess, of using 
only a portion of what is in our power. Take away, however, 
the portion that is not used, and it immediately becomes the 
object of our fondest desires. The more you endeavour to 
improve the condition of these people, the more you cultivate 
their minds, (unless by religious instruction,) the more misera- 
ble you make them in their present state. You give them a 
higher relish for those privileges which they can never attain, 



84 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION". 

and turn what we intend for a blessing into a curse. No, if 
they must remain in their present situation, keep them in the 
lowest state of degradation and ignorance. The nearer you 
bring them to the condition of brutes the better chance do you 
give them of possessing their apathy. Surely, Americans ought 
to be the last people on earth to advocate such slavish doctrines, 
to cry peace and contentment to those who are deprived of the 
privileges of civil liberty. They who have so largely partaken 
of its blessings, who know so well how to estimate its value, 
ought to be the foremost to extend it to others. 

" I will consider the practicability of colonization under three 
heads: The territory — the expense — and the probability of 
obtaining their consent. 

" 1. The territory. Various plans have been mentioned by 
different persons. A situation within our own territory would 
certainly possess some considerable advantage. It would be 
more immediately under the eye and control of our own 
government. But there are some real and some apprehended 
evils to encounter. Many apprehend that they might hereafter 
join the Indians, or the nations bordering on our frontiers in 
case of war, if they were placed so* near us — that the colony 
would become the asylum of fugitives and runaway slaves. 
Added to these difficulties there are inveterate prejudices against 
such a plan in so large a portion of the country, which would 
be impossible to overcome or remove. Upon mature reflection, 
with all the light that has yet been shed upon the subject, I 
believe it will be found that Africa will be liable to the fewest 
objections. A territory might, no doubt, be procured there; 
the climate is best adapted to their constitutions, and they could 
live cheaper. But, Mr. Chairman, I have a greater and nobler 
object in view in desiring them to be placed in Africa. It is 
the belief that through them civilization and the Christian reli- 
gion would be introduced into that benighted quarter of the 
world.' It is the hope of redeeming many millions of people 
from the lowest state of superstition and ignorance, and re- 
storing them to the knowledge and worship of the true God. 
Great and powerful as are the other motives to this measure, 
(and I acknowledge them to be of sufficient magnitude to 
attract the attention and to call forth the united efforts of this 
nation.) in my opinion, and you will find it the opinion of a 
large class of the community, all other motives are small and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 85 

trifling compared with the hope of spreading among them the 
knowledge of the gospel. From the importance of this view 
of the subject permit me to enlarge a little upon it. Whatever 
maybe the difference of opinion among the different denomina- 
tions of Christians, I believe they will all be found to unite in 
the belief that the Scriptures predict a time when the gospel of 
Jesus Christ shall be spread over every part of the world; shall 
be acknowledged by every nation, and perhaps shall influence 
every heart. The opinion is, perhaps, as general, that this 
glorious and happy day is near at hand. The great movements 
and mighty efforts in the moral and religious world seem to 
indicate some great design of Providence on the eve of accom- 
plishment. The unexampled and astonishing success attending 
the various and numerous plans which have been devised and 
which are now in operation in difterent parts of the world, and 
the union and harmony with which Christians of different 
denominations unite in promoting these plans, clearly indicate 
a divine hand in their direction. Nay, sir, the subject on which 
we are now deliberating has been brought to public view 
nearly at the same time in different parts of our country. In 
New Jersey, New York, Indiana, Tennessee, Virginia, and 
perhaps other places not known to me, the public attention 
seems to have been awakened as from a slumber to this sub- 
ject. The belief that I have mentioned, leads Christians to look 
with anxious solicitude and joyful hope to every movement 
which they believe to be instrumental in accomplishing the 
great designs of Providence. They will receive your proposal 
with joy, and support it with zeal; and permit me to say, that 
it will be of no small consequence to gain the zealous support 
and cooperation of this portion of the community. 

"On the subject of expense I should hope there would not be 
much difference of opinion. All are interested, though some 
portions of the community are more immediately so than others. 
We should consider that what affects a part of our country is 
interesting to the whole. Besides, it is a great national object, 
and ought to be supported by a national purse. And, as has 
been justly observed by the honourable gentleman in the chair, 
there ought to be a national atonement for the wrongs and 
injuries which Africa has suff'ered. For although the State 
Legislatures commenced early after our independence to put a 
stop to the slave trade, and the National Government interfered 
S 



86 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

as soon as the constitution would permit, yet as a nation, we 
cannot rid ourselves entirely from the guilt and disgrace attend- 
ing that iniquitous traffic, until we, as a nation, have made 
every reparation in our power. If, however, more funds are 
wanting than is thought expedient to appropriate out of the 
pubhc treasury, the liberality and humanity of our citizens will 
not suffer it to fail for want of pecuniary aid. I should be 
sorry, however, to see our government dividing any part of the 
glory and honour which cannot fail of attending the accom- 
plishment of a work so great, so interesting, and which will 
tend so much to diffuse the blessings of civil liberty, and pro- 
mote the happiness of man. 

" Among the objections which have been made, I must con- 
fess that I am most surprised at one which seems to be preva- 
lent, to wit, that these people will be unwilling to be colonized. 
What, sir, are they not men ? Will they not be actuated by 
the same motives of interest and ambition which influence 
other men ? Or, will they prefer remaining in a hopeless state 
of degradation for themselves and their children, to the pros- 
pect of the full enjoyment of their civil rights and a state of 
equality ? What brought our ancestors to these shores ? They 
had no friendly hand to lead them, no powerful human arm to 
protect them. They left the land of their nativity, the sepul- 
chres of their fathers, the comforts of civilized society, and all 
the endearments of friends and relatives, and early associations, 
to traverse the ocean, to clear the forests, to encounter all the 
hardships of a new settlement, and to brave the dangers of the 
tomahawk and scalping knife. How many were destroyed ! 
Sometimes whole settlements cut off by disease and hunger, by 
the treachery and cruelty of the savages ; yet were they not 
discouraged. What is it impels many Europeans daily to seek 
our shores, and to sell themselves for the prime of their life to 
defray the expenses of their passages ? It is that ruling, im- 
perious desire, planted in the breast of every man, the desire of 
liberty, of standing upon an equality wtth his fellow men. If 
we were to add to these motives the offer of land, and to aid 
in the expense of emigration and of first settling, they cannot 
be so blind to their own interest, so devoid of every generous 
and noble feeling, as to hesitate about accepting of the offer. 
It is not a matter of speculation and opinion only. It has been 
satisfactorily ascertained that numbers will gladly accept of the 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 87 

invitation. And when once the colony is formed, and flourish- 
ing, all other obstacles will be easily removed. It is for us to 
make the experiment and the oifer; we shall then, and not till 
then, have discharged our duty. It is a plan in which all in- 
terests, all classes and descriptions of people may unite, in 
which all discordant feelings may be lost m those of humanity, 
in promoting 'peace on earth and good will to men.' " 

When Mr. Caldwell had concluded, the honourable John 
Randolph of Roanoke, rose and said, that it had been properly 
observed by the chairman, that there was nothing in the propo- 
sition submitted to consideration which, in the smallest degree, 
touched another very important and delicate question, which 
ought to be left as much out of view as possible. But it ap- 
peared to him that it had not been sufficiently insisted on, with 
a view to obtain the cooperation of all the citizens of the 
United States, not only that this meeting does not in any wise 
affect the question of negro slavery, but as far as it goes, must 
materially tend to secure the property of every master in the 
United States over his slaves. It appeared to him that this 
aspect of the question, had not been sufficiently presented to 
the public view. It was a notorious fact, that the existence of 
this mixed and intermediate population of free negroes was 
viewed by every slave-holder as one of the greatest sources of 
the insecurity and unprofitableness of slave property; that they 
serve to excite in their fellow beings a feeling of discontent, of 
repining at their situation, and that they act as channels of 
communication, not only between different slaves, but between 
(he slaves of different districts ; that they are the depositaries 
of stolen goods, and the promoters of mischief. In a worldly 
point of view then, without entering into the general question, 
and apart from those higher and nobler motives which had 
been presented to the meeting, the owners of slaves were inter- 
ested in providing a retreat for this part of our population. 
There was no fear that this proposition would alarm them; 
they had been accustomed to think seriously of the subject. 
There was a popular work on agriculture, by John Taylor of 
Caroline county, which was widely circulated, and much con- 
fided in, in Virginia. In that book, much read, because coming 
from a practical man, this description of people was pointed out 
as a great evil. If a place could be provided for their recep- 
tion, and a mode of sending them hence, there were hundreds, 



88 HISTORY OF AFRICAN- COLONIZATION. 

nay thousands of citizens, who would by manumitthig their 
slaves, reUeve themselves from the cares attendant on their pos- 
session. 

Mr. Robert Wright, of Maryland, said that he could not 
withhold his approbation of a measure that had for its object 
the melioration of the lot of any portion of the human race, 
particularly of the free people of colour, whose degraded state 
robs them of the happiness of self-government, so dear to the 
American people. "And, said he, as I discover the most deli- 
cate regard to the rights of property, I shall, with great plea- 
sure, lend my aid to restore this unfortunate people to the en- 
joyment of their liberty; but I fear gentlemen are too sanguine 
in their expectations, that they would be willing to abandon 
the land of their nativity, so dear to man. However, I have 
the disposition to give them that election, by furnishing all the 
means contemplated. But while we wish to promote the 
happiness of these free people of colour, we ought to take care 
not to furnish the means of transporting out of the reach of the 
master his property." 

' Mr. Caldwell oftered the following preamble and resolutions, 
which were unanimously adopted. 

" The situation of the free people of colour in the United 
States, has been the subject of anxious solicitude with many 
of our most distinguished citizens, from the first existence 
of our country as an independent nation : but the great diffi- 
culty and embarrassment attendmgthe establishment of an 
infant nation, when first struggling into existence, and the sub- 
sequent convulsions of Europe, have hitherto prevented any 
great national effort to provide a remedy for the evils existing 
or apprehended. The present period seems peculiarly auspi- 
cious to invite attention to this important subject, and gives a 
well grounded hope of success. The nations of Europe are 
hushed into peace ; unexampled efforts are making in various 
parts of the world to diffuse knowledge, civilization, and the 
benign influence of the Christian religion. The rights of man 
are becoming daily better understood ; the legitimate objects of 
government, as founded for the benefit and intended for the 
happiness of men, are more generally acknowledged, and an 
ardent zeal for the happiness of the human race is kindled in 
almost every heart. Desirous of aiding in the great cause of 
philanthropy and of promoting the happiness and prosperity 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 89 

of our country, it is recommended by this meeting to form an 
association or society for the purpose of giving aid and assist- 
ing in the colonization of the free people of colour in the United 
States, — Therefore 

Resolved, That an association or society be formed for the 
purpose of collecting information, and to assist in the forma- 
tion and execution of a plan for the colonization of the free 
people of colour with their consent, in Africa or elsewhere, as 
may be thought most advisable by the constituted authorities 
of the country. 

Resolved, That Elias B. Caldwell, John Randolph, Richard 
Rush, Walter Jones, Francis S. Key, Robert Wright, James 
H. Blake, and John Peter, be a committee to present a respect- 
ful memorial to Congress, requesting them to adopt such mea- 
sures as may be thought most advisable, for procuring a territory 
in Africa or elsewhere, suitable for the colonization of the free 
people of colour. 

Resolved, That Francis S. Key, Bushrod Washington, Elias 
B. Caldwell, James Breckenridge, Walter Jones, Richard 
Rush, and William G. D. Worthington, be a committee to pre- 
pare a constitution and rules for the government of the asso- 
ciation or society, above mentioned, and report the same to the 
next meeting for consideration." 

The meeting now adjourned until the ensuing Saturday, 
when they again assembled in the hall of the House of Repre- 
sentatives of the United States, when the following constitution 
was presented by the committee appointed for that purpose, 
and after being considered was unanimously adopted. 

" Article I, — This society shall be called, ' The American 
Society for colonizing the free people of colour of the United 
States.' 

Article II, — The object to which its attention is to be exclu- 
sively directed, is to promote and execute a plan for colonizing 
(with their consent,) the free people of colour, residing in our 
country, in Africa, or such other places as Congress shall deem 
most expedient. And the society shall act, to effect this object, 
in cooperation with the general government, and such of the 
States as may adopt regulations upon the subject. 

Article III. — Every citizen of the United States, who shall 
subscribe these articles, and be an annual contributor of one 
dollar to the funds of the society, shall be a member. On 
8* 



90 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

paying a sum not less than thirty dollars, at one subscription, 
he shall be a member for life. 

Article IV. — The officers of this society shall be, a Presi- 
dent, thirteen Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, a Treasurer, a Re- 
corder, and a Board of Managers, composed of the above 
named officers, and twelve other members of the society. They 
shall be annually elected by the members of the society, at their 
annual meeting on New Year's day, (except when that happens 
to be the Sabbath, and then the next day,) and continue to 
discharge their respective duties till others are appointed. 

Article V. — It shall be the duty of the President to preside 
at all meetings of the society, and of the Board of Managers, 
and to call meetings of the society, and of the Board, when he 
thinks necessary, or when requested by any three members of 
the Board. 

Article VI. — The Vice-Presidents, according to seniority, 
shall discharge these duties in the absence of the President. 

Article VII. — The Secretary shall take minutes of the pro- 
ceedings, prepare and publish notices, and discharge such other 
duties as the Board, or the President, or in his absence the Vice- 
President, according to seniority, (when the Board is not sit- 
ting) shall direct. And the Recorder shall record the proceed- 
ings and the names of the members, and discharge such other 
duties as may be required of him. 

Article VIII. — The Treasurer shall receive and take charge 
of the funds of the society, under such security as may be 
prescribed by the Board of Managers ; keep the accounts and 
exhibit a statement of receipts and expenditures at every 
annual meeting, and discharge such other duties as may be 
required of him. 

Article IX. — The Board of Managers shall meet on the first 
Monday in January, the first Monday in April, the first Monday 
in July, and the first Monday in October, every year, and at 
such other times as the President may direct. They shall con- 
duct the business of the society, and take such measures for 
efi"ecting its object as they shall think proper, or shall be directed 
at the meetings of the society, and make an annual report of 
their proceedings. They shall- also fill up all vacancies occur- 
ring during the year, and make such by-laws for their govern- 
ment as they may deem necessary, provided the same are not 
repugnant to this constitution. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 91 

Article X. — Every society which shall be formed in the 
United States to aid in the object of this association, and 
which shall cooperate with its funds for the purposes thereof, 
agreeably to the rules and regulations of this society, shall be 
considered auxiliary thereto, and its officers shall be entitled to 
attend and vote at all meetings of the society, and of the Board 
of Managers." 

The American Colonization Society being now formed by 
the adoption of a constitution, held its first meeting on the first 
day of January 1817, when the following officers were chosen: 

President. — Hon. Bushrod Washington. 

Vice Presidents.— Hon. William H. Crawford, of Geor- 
gia, Hon. Henry Clay, of Kentucky, Hon. William Phillips, 
of Massachusetts, Col. Henry Rutgers, of New York, Hon. 
John E. Howard, Hon. Samuel Smith, and the Hon. John C. 
Herbert, of Maryland, John Taylor, Esq., of Virginia, General 
Andrew Jackson, of Tennessee, Robert Ralston, and Richard 
Rush, Esqs., of Pennsylvania, Gen. John Mason, of the Dis- 
trict of Columbia, Rev. Robert Finley, of New Jersey. 

Managers. — Francis S. Key, Walter Jones, John Laird, 
Rev. Dr. James Laurie, Rev. Stephen B. Balch, Rev. Obadiah 
B. Brown, James H. Blake, John Peter, Edmund J. Lee, Wil- 
liam Thornton, Jacob Hoffman, Henry Carroll. 

Secretary. — Elias B. Caldwell. 

Recording Secretary.— W. G. D. Worthington. 

Treasurer. — David English. 

It was, among other things, resolved by this meeting of the 
society, "That the Board of Managers be instructed and 
required, to present a memorial to Congress, on the subject of 
colonizing, with their consent, the free people of colour of the 
Unhed States, in Africa, or elsewhere." 

The Board, as directed, had a memorial prepared and pre- 
sented to both Houses of Congress, of which the following is 
a copy, viz: 

memorial. 

The memorial of the President and Board of Managers of the American Society 
for Colonizing the Free People of Colour of the United States, 

Respectfulbj Shoius — That your memorialists are delegated 
by a numerous and highly respectable association of their fel- 
low citizens, recently organized at the seat of government, to 
solicit Congress to aid with the power, the patronage, and the 



92 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

resources of the country, the great and beneficial object of their 
institution; an object deemed worthy of the earnest attention, 
and of the strenuous and persevering exertions, as well of 
every patriot, in whatever condition of life, as of every enlight- 
ened, philanthropic, and practical statesman. 

It is now reduced to be a maxim, equally approved in phi- 
losophy and practice, that the existence of distinct and separate 
castes, or classes forming exceptions to the general system of 
policy adapted to the community, is an inherent vice in the 
composition of society; pregnant with baneful consequences, 
both moral and political, and demanding the utmost exertion 
of human energy and foresight to remedy or remove it. If this 
maxim be true in the general, it applies with peculiar force to 
the relative condition of the free people of colour in the United 
States, between whom and the rest of the community a com- 
bination of causes, political, physical, and moral, has created 
distinctions, unavoidable in their origin, and most unfortunate 
in their consequences. The actual and prospective condition 
of that class of people, their anomalous and indefinite relations 
to the political institutions and social ties of the community, 
their deprivation of most of those independent, political, and 
social rights, so indispensable to the progressive melioration of 
our nature; rendered, by systematic exclusion from all the 
higher rewards of excellence, dead to all the elevating hopes 
that might prompt a generous ambition to excel; all these con- 
siderations demonstrate that it equally imports the public good, 
and the individual and social happiness of tlie persons more im- 
mediately concerned; that it is equally a debt of patriotism and 
of humanity to provide some adequate and effectual remedy. 
The evil has become so appar'ent and the necessity for a reme- 
dy so palpable, that some of the most considerable of the slave 
holding States have been induced to impose restraints upon the 
practice of emancipation, by annexing conditions which have 
no effect but to transfer the evil from one State to another, or 
by inducing other States to adopt countervailing regulations, 
end in the total abrogation of a right, which benevolent or con- 
scientious proprietors had long enjoyed under all the sanctions of 
positive law and ancient usage. Your memorialists beg leave, 
whh all deference, to present, that the fairest and most inviting 
opportunities are now presented to the general government, for 
repairing a great evil in our social and political institutions, 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



93 



and at the same time for elevating, from a low and hopeless 
condition, a numerous and rapidly increasing race of men, who 
want nothing but a proper theatre, to enter upon the pursuit of 
happiness and independence in the ordinary paths which a be- 
nign Providence has left open to the human race. These great 
ends, it is conceived, may be accomplished by making adequate 
provisions for planting, in some salubrious and fertile region, 
a colony to be composed of such of the above description of 
persons as may choose to emigrate; and for extending to it the 
authority and protection of the United States, until it shall have 
attained sufficient strength and consistency to be left in a state 
of independence. 

Independently of the motives derived from political foresight 
and civil prudence on the one hand, and from moral justice 
and philanthropy on the other, there are additional considera- 
tions and more expanded views to engage the sympathies and 
excite the ardour of a liberal and enlightened people. It may 
be reserved for our government, (the first to denounce an in- 
human and abominable traffic, in the guilt and disgrace of 
which most of the civilized nations of the world were partak- 
ers,) to become the honourable instrument under divine Provi- 
dence, of conferring a still higher blessing upon the large and^ 
interesting portion of mankind, benefitted by that deed of jus- 
tice, by demonstrating that a race of men, composing numerous 
tribes, spread over a continent of vast and unexplored extent, 
fertility, and riches, unknown to the enhghtened nations of an- 
tiquity, and who had yet made no progress in the refinements 
of civilization, for whom history has preserved no monuments 
of arts or arms ; that even this hitherto ill-fated race may cher- 
ish the hope of beholding at last the orient star reveaUng the 
best and highest aims and attributes of man. Out of such 
materials to rear the glorious edifice of well ordered and polish- 
ed society, upon the deep and sure foundation of equal laws 
and diffusive education, would give a sufficient title to be en- 
rolled among the illustrious benefactors of mankind, whilst it 
afl'orded a precious and consolatory evidence of the all-prevail- 
ing power of liberty, enlightened by knowledge and corrected 
by religion. If the experiment, in its more remote conse- 
quences, should ultimately tend to the diffusion of similar 
blessings through those vast regions and unnumbered tribes, 
yet obscured in primeval darkness, reclaim the rude wanderer, 



94 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

from a life of wretchedness, to civilization and humanity, and 
convert the blind idolater from gross and abject superstitions, to 
the holy charities, the sublime morality and humanizing disci- 
pline of the gospel; the nation or the individual that shall have 
taken the most conspicuous lead in achieving the enterprise, 
will secure imperishable glory, founded in the moral approba- 
tion and gratitude of the human race, unapproachable to all 
but the elected instruments of Divine beneficence — a glory, 
with which the most splendid achievements of human force or 
power must sink in the competition, and appear insignificant 
and vulgar in the comparison. And above all, should it be 
considered that the nation or the individual whose energies 
have been faithfully given to this august work, will have 
secured, by this exalted beneficence, the favour of that Being 
whose compassion is over all his works, and whose unspeak- 
able rewards will never fail to bless the humblest efforts to do 
good to his creatures. 

Your memorialists do not presume to determine, that the 
views of Congress will be necessarily directed to the country to 
which they have just alluded. They hope to be excused for 
intimating some of the reasons which would bring that portion 
of the world before us, when engaged in discovering a place 
the most proper to be selected, leaving it, with perfect confi- 
dence, to the better information and better judgment of your 
honourable body to make the choice. 

Your memorialists, without presuming to mark out, in detail, 
the measures which it may be proper to adopt in furtherance 
of the object in view; but implicitly relying upon the wisdom 
of Congress to devise the most effectual measures, will only 
pray, that the subject may be recommended to their serious 
consideration, and that, as an humble auxiliary in this great 
work, the association, represented by your memorialists, may 
be permitted to aspire to the hope of contributing to its labours 
and resources." 

In the House of Representatives, the memorial was referred 
to a respectable committee, consisting of Messrs. Pickering, 
Comstock, Condict, Tucker, Taggart, Cilley, and Hooks, who 
brought in the following report. 

" The committee to whom was referred the memorial of the 
President and Board of Managers of the ' American Society 
for colonizing the free people of colour of the United States/ 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 95 

have had the same under their deliberate consideration. The 
subject is of such magnitude, and attended with so many diffi- 
culties, it is with much diffidence they present their views of it 
to the House, 

Were it simply a question of founding a colony, numerous 
and well known precedents show with what facility the work 
might be accomplished. Every new territory established by 
our government, constitutes, indeed, a colony, formed with 
great ease; because it is only an extension of homogeneous 
settlements. But in contemplating the colonization of the free 
people of colour, it seemed obviously necessary to take a differ- 
ent course. Their distinct character and relative condition, 
render an entire separation from our own states and territories 
indispensable. And the separation must be such as to admit 
of an indefinite continuance. Hence it seems manifest that 
these people cannot be colonized within the limits of the United 
States. If they were not far distant, the rapidly extending 
settlements of our white population would soon reach them, 
and the evil now felt would be renewed, probably with aggra- 
vated mischief. Were the colony to be remote, it must be 
planted on lands now occupied by the native tribes of the 
country. And could a territory be purchased, the transporting 
of the colonists thither, would be vastly expensive, their sub- 
sistence for a time difficult, and a body of troops would be 
required for their protection. And after all, should these diffi- 
culties be overcome, the original evil would at length recur, by 
the extension of our white population. In the meantime, 
should the colony so increase as to become a nation, it is not 
difficult to foresee the quarrels and destructive wars which 
would ensue, especially if the slavery of people of colour 
should continue, and accompany the whites in their migrations. 

Turning our eyes from our own country, no other, adapted 
to the colony in contemplation, presented itself to our view, 
nearer than Africa, the native land of negroes ; and probably 
that is the only country on the globe to which it would be 
practicable to transfer our free people of colour with safety, 
and advantage to themselves and the civilized world. It is the 
country which, in the order of Providence, seems to have been 
appropriated to that distinct family of mankind. And while it 
presents the fittest asylum for the free people of colour, it opens 
a wide field for their improvement in civilization, morals and 



96 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

religion, which the humane and enUghtened memoriahsts have 
conceived it possible, in process of time, to spread on that 
great continent. 

Should the measure suggested be approved, an important 
question occurs — In what way shall its execution be essayed? 
A prehminary step would be to provide for the perfect neu- 
trality of the colony, by the explicit assent and engagement of 
all the civilized powers, whatever dissentions may at any time 
arise among themselves. 

The next important question is. Will it be expedient to 
attempt the establishment of a new colony in Africa, or to 
make to Great Britain a proposal to receive the emigrants from 
the United States into her colony at Sierra Leone? 

At Sierra Leone the first difficulties have been surmounted, 
and a few free people of colour from the United States have 
been admitted. A gradual addition from the same source (and 
such would be the natural progress,) would occasion no embar- 
rassment, either in regard to their sustenance or government. 
Would the British government consent to receive such an 
accession of emigrants, however eventually considerable, from 
the United States? Would that government agree, that at the 
period when that colony shall be capable of self-government 
and self-protection, it shall be declared independent? In the 
meantime, will it desire to monopolize the commerce of the 
colony? This would be injurious to the colonists, as well 
as to the United States. Should that country, from the nature 
of its soil, and other circumstances, hold out sufficent al- 
lurements, and draw to it, from the United States, the great 
body of the free people of colour, these would form its strength, 
and its ability to render its commerce an object of considera- 
tion. Now, as the great and permanent benefit of colonists 
was the fundamental principle of the establishment, will the 
British government decline a proposition calculated to give to 
that benefit the important extension which will arise from a 
freedom of commerce? To those, at least, at whose expense 
and by whose means the colony shall be essentially extended? 
Should an agreement with Great Britain be effected, no further 
negotiation, nor any extraordinary expenditure of money, will 
be required. The work already commenced will be continued 
— simply that of carrying to Sierra Leone all who are willing 
to embark. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 97 

It would seem highly desh-able to confine the migrations to 
a single colony. The two distinct and' independent colonies, 
established and protected by two independent powers, would 
naturally imbibe the spirit and distinctions of their patrons and 
protectors, and put in jeopardy the peace and prosperity of 
both. Even the simple fact of separate independence, would 
eventually tend to produce collisions and wars between the 
two establishments, (unless indeed these were far removed 
from each other,) and perhaps defeat the further humane and 
exalted views of those who projected them. The spirit which 
animated the founders of the colony of Sierra Leone, would be 
exerted to effect a union of design, and the cordial cooperation 
of the British government with our own, and, it might be 
hoped, not without success. It would be iu accordance with 
the spirit of a stipulation in the last treaty of peace, by which 
the two governments stand pledged to each other, to use their 
best endeavours to effect the entire abolition of the traffic in 
slaves, while the proposed institution would tend to diminish 
the quantity of slavery actually existing. 

If, however, such enlarged and liberal views should be 
wanting, then the design of forming a separate colony might 
be announced by the American ministers to the maritime pow- 
ers, and their guaranty of the neutrality of the colony ob- 
tained. 

Your committee do not think it proper to pursue the subject 
any further at this time, but that the government should wait 
the result of the suggested negotiations, on which ulterior mea- 
sures must depend. 

In conclusion your committee beg leave to report a joint 
resolution, embracing the views herein before exhibited. 

Joint Resolution for Abolishing the Traffic in Slaves, and the Colonization of the 
Free People of Colour of the United States, February 11, 1817. Read, and 
committed to a Committee of the whole House on Monday next. 

Resolved, by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
the United States of America, in Congress t/^ssembted, That 
the President be, and he is hereby, authorized to consult and 
negotiate with all the governments where ministers of the 
United States are, or shall be accredited, on the means of effect- 
ing an entire and immediate abolition of the traffic in slaves. 
And also to enter into a convention with the government of 
9 



98 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Great Britain, for receiving into the colony of Sierra Leone, 
such of the free people of colour of the United States as, with 
their own consent, shall be carried thither ; stipulating such 
terms as shall be most beneficial to the colonists, while it pro- 
motes the peaceful interests of Great Britain and the United 
States. And should this proposition not be accepted, then to 
obtain from Great Britain, and the other maritime powers, a 
stipulation, or a formal declaration to the same effect, guaran- 
teeing a permanent neutrahty, for any colony of free people 
of colour, which, at the expense and under the auspices of the 
United States, shall be established on the African coast. 

Resolved, That adequate provision should hereafter be made 
to defray any necessary expenses, which may be incurred in 
carrying the preceding resolution into effect." 

Although there appeared to be scarcely an appearance of 
opposition to the colonization enterprise, at this time, in Con- 
gress, yet other more urgent business continued to occupy the 
attention of the House, and the report of the committee was 
not called up and acted on during the session. 

Still something of importance was gained by these proceed- 
ings; the subject was formally presented to the public, and the 
sentiments expressed in the memorial and the report, made a 
salutary impression on the public mind. In a short time nume- 
rous auxiliary societies were organized, and strong recom- 
mendations of the object were given by various ecclesiastical 
bodies of different denominations. 



CHAPTER VI. 

VOYAGE OF MESSRS. MILLS AND BURGESS. 

The mind of the Rev. Samuel J. Mills seems to have been so 
thoroughly imbued with the spirit of benevolence, that he was 
ever meditating schemes and plans by which the happiness ot 
the human race might be promoted. After having given the 
first impulse to foreign missions in this country, he turned his 
attention to the condition of the multitudes of settlers on our 
frontiers, who were living without the means of grace. While 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 99 

travelling in the south-west and south, his mind was deeply- 
affected with the deplorable condition of the African race, in 
this country. He conversed freely with pious men of hberal 
minds, at the south, and found many of them well disposed to 
emancipate their slaves, if any disposal could be made of them, 
consistent with their own welfare, and the good of society at 
large. Finding that no plan was likely to meet the views of 
slaveholders, which did not provide for the removal of the 
emancipated slaves from among them, he set his fertile mind 
at work to devise a plan by which they might be disposed of 
advantageously. The outlines of the plan were, that a large 
tract of land in the western country should be appropriated by 
the government of the United States for this purpose, where 
emancipated slaves might be removed, and where they might 
be governed under such laws and regulations as were adapted 
to their situation, until they should become capable of govern- 
ing themselves. The scheme, indeed, was not new, and at 
first view seemed plausible, and upon being communicated to 
intelligent and philanthropic men at the south, met their appro- 
bation; but when the subject came to be more thoroughly 
examined, numerous difficulties seemed to encumber it, which 
need not be now mentioned, as no attempt was ever made to 
carry it into effect. Mr. Mills, however, having his mind still 
turned to the melioration of the condition of the people of 
colour, formed a plan, in concurrence with other benevolent 
persons, in and about Newark, New Jersey, where he then 
resided, for the establishment of a seminary for the education 
of coloured men of piety, in the hope, that these might greatly 
exalt and meliorate the condition of the African race. This 
scheme was commenced under flattering auspices, and for a 
while it seemed to promise great usefulness. The school was 
placed under the care and patronage of the Synod of New Jer- 
sey, who fixed its site at Parsippany, New Jersey, and placed 
it under the immediate tuition of the Rev. John Ford. The 
number of scholars was never large, but for some years the 
object was prosecuted with zeal, and favourable reports were 
received of the behaviour and progress of the pupils. Bat 
when an attempt was made to lessen the expenses of the 
institution, by requiring a certain amount of labour from each 
scholar, they became dissatisfied, and soon afterwards the insti- 
tution was broken up. It was at this time, as we have seen, that 



100 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the Rev. Dr. Finley came forward with his proposal of a society 
for colonizing the free people of colour on the coast of Africa, 
with their own consent. Although this plan had no direct 
reference to the slaves, yet it was foreseen that it would remove 
out of the way, one of the principal obstacles to emancipation, 
in regard to those slaveholders who desired to give liberty to 
their slaves, by providing a comfortable asylum for them, in 
the land of their forefathers. 

Mr. Mills, at once, perceived the benefits to the African race, 
Hkely to accrue from the prosecution of this scheme of coloni- 
zation; he therefore gave himself up to it with a zeal which 
nothing but death could extinguish. The great difficulty to be 
overcome was, to find and obtain a place in Africa for the 
commencement of a colony. Former efforts made by the 
highest authorities in the country, had failed of success; but 
still there seemed to be no insurmountable obstacle in the way 
of finding such a place, somewhere on the extensive western 
coast of Africa. And the Colonization Society, at Washington, 
were desirous of having that country explored, with the view 
of acquiring a territory, to which colonists might be advan- 
tageously sent. To prosecute this difficult and dangerous 
mission, Mr. Mills offered his services; and as it was desirable 
that he should not go alone, but be accompanied by a man of 
like spirit with himself, the Rev. (now Dr.) Ebenezer Burgess 
was selected, and consented to go to Africa with Mr. Mills. 

These two devoted men took England in their way, and 
were the bearers of letters to His Royal Highness, the Duke of 
Gloucester, President of the African Institution, and to Lord 
Bathurst, Secretary of State for the colonial department of 
the British government, by whifm they were courteously and 
kindly received, and every thing done which they required, to 
facilitate their voyage, and to render their mission successful. 

In February, 1818, they sailed from the Downs, and on the 
13th of March, came to anchor in the river Gambia. During 
the voyage, which was tedious, the missionaries were engaged 
in reading books which treated of the people, climate, soil, and 
productions of Africa. Here they paid their respects to the 
commandant, and became acquainted with most of the Euro- 
peans, resident at the place, from whom they learned several 
facts respecting the slave trade. They walked out from the 
settlement several miles, and found the country overgrown 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 101 

with wild grass, resembling the prairies of Illinois and Mis- 
souri. 

On the 16th of March, they embarked for Sierra Leone, a 
voyage of four or five days. The appearance of the country 
as they entered the river, is described as presenting a grand 
and verdant prospect, and the town, that of a neat and pleasant 
village. They say, " several villages are in sight, the church 
on Leicester mountain is in full view, and aids us much in our 
devotional thoughts, on this sacred day. The altars on these 
mountains, which the natives had dedicated to devils, are falling 
before the temples of the living God, like the image of Dagon 
before the ark. The time is coming when the dwellers in these 
vales, and on these mountains, will sing hosannahs to the Son 
of David. Distant tribes will learn their song. Ethiopia will 
stretch forth her hands unto God, and worship." 

Governor Macarthy being absent. Lord Bathurst's letters 
were presented to the commandant. Chief Justice Fitzgerald, 
and the council; all of whom received them courteously, and 
offered to show them the different settlements in the colony. 
The minds of the leading men here were found favourable to 
the establishment of an American colony ; but some difference 
of opinion existed, as to the expediency of locating it in the 
vicinity of Sierra Leone ; the merchants there seemed to fear 
that it might interfere with their trade. 

Their visit to the schools in Freetown is thus described: " In 
the male school were about two hundred neat, active, intelli- 
gent boys, divided into eight classes, under the superintendence 
of Mr. Horton, whose perseverance and fidelity are entitled to 
high commendation. In the female school were about one 
hundred neatly dressed little girls, many of whom could read 
and sew. These schools would do no dishonour to an English 
or American village. There was not a white child in either of 
them. I believe schools of white children seldom give fairer 
proofs of good improvement. 

"The number in all the schools in the colony, including 
some adults, does not fall much short of two thousand. This 
is about one sixth part of the whole population." 

The missionaries had an interview, and free conversation, 
with the principal members of the '•' Friendly Society," insti- 
tuted at the suggestion of Paul Cuffee, whose memory is 
cherished here with warm affection. When they signified their 
9* 



102 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

purpose of visiting Sherbro, it was agreed that Mr. Kizell, 
and Mr. Martin, should accompany them. 

"Before we parted, we addressed our prayers to God, to 
whom the honour and glory of this great and benevolent enter- 
prise will belong, if it be carried into effect." 

The character and life of John Kizell being somewhat 
remarkable, we will give some further account of him, and of 
his description of the natives and their mode of life. It is 
proper, however, to observe, that although this man was high 
in the confidence of Governor Columbine, of Sierra Leone, 
and made a very favourable impression on Messrs. Mills and 
Burgess, yet, afterwards, he fell under strong suspicion of being 
a selfish and deceitful man, when the first colonists from this 
country were placed on Sherbro island, and, in a manner, 
. under his care. But we need not anticipate events which will 
be brought into view in their proper order. 

The following character of Kizell is taken from Governor 
Columbine. 

" John Kizell is a black man, a native of the country some 
leagues inward from the Sherbro. His father was a chief of 
some consequence, and so was his uncle. They resided at 
different towns; and when Kizell was a boy, he was sent by 
his father on a visit to his uncle, who was desirous to have him 
with him. On the very night of his arrival, the house was 
attacked; a bloody battle ensued, in which his uncle and most 
of his people were killed. Some escaped, the rest were taken 
prisoners, and amongst these was Kizell. His father, as soon 
as he heard of his son's disaster, made every effort to relieve 
him, offering them slaves and some grounds for him ; but his 
enemies declared they would not give him up for any price, 
and that they would rather put him to death. He was taken 
to the Gallinas, put on board an English ship, and carried as 
one of a cargo of slaves to Charleston, South Carolina. On the 
passage, one of the women pining away with grief, on account 
of her situation, was tied up to the mast and flogged to death, as 
a warning to others not to indulge their melancholy to the 
detriment of their health, and thereby to injure their value to 
their Christian owners. 

" He arrived in Charleston, a few years before that city was 
taken by Sir Henry Clinton. In consequence of the General's 
proclamation, he, with many other slaves, joined the royal 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 103 

Standard. He was close to Col. Ferguson, v/hen he was killed 
at King's Mountain. After the war, he was remanded to Nova 
Scotia, from which place he came to Africa, in 1792. 

" He is an intelligent man, has always preserved an excel- 
lent character, and has the welfare of his native country sin- 
cerely at heart. The government of this colony have repeat- 
edly employed him in their negotiations with the Caulkers and 
the Clevelands, and other chiefs of Sherbro ; and he appears 
always to have discharged his duty with great integrity and 
address." 

The following anecdote is also worthy of notice. 

In March 1795, the brig Amy after a passage of forty days 
arrived at Freetown. " John Kizell, one of our negro Baptist 
brethren who came to England in the company's service, re- 
turned in this vessel, and was enabled to take out a venture withl 
him, which he sold extremely well. The profits were to have 
been solely for his own use ; but though in the general havoc 
which was made in his absence (by the French) he lost what 
property he had in the colony, he, of his own accord, in the 
generosity of his heart, divided the profits of his venture among 
his brethren; thus alleviating their distress, as far as he was 
able." 

Governor Columbine, to do what he could to put an end to 
the slave trade on the African coast, in the proximity of Sierra 
Leone, sent Kizell to Sherbro to reside, and gave him a letter 
to the head-man, of which the following is an extract. 

"I have sent Mr. Kizell to visit you on my part, in order 
that you may communicate to him any thing that you may 

wish to say to me I hope you will allow my friend, 

Mr. Kizell, to have a sufficient portion of ground or territory, 
for him to build a town, and to point out to you the proper 
mode of rearing those articles of trade which will supply you 
with all European commodities. You cannot have the least 
reason to be jealous of him, he is one of yourselves; and he has 
the welfare of you and his country, very earnestly at heart; 
^,and I entreat you to forward his views as much as possible, 
and to join him in a noble endeavour to make yourselves and 
your children great, and your country happy. I shall leave 
the transaction entirely to yourselves, as I do not intend to send 
a single European to live in Kizelltown; but I shall furnish 
him with tools, &c. for cultivation. 



104 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

" I have no personal advantage to derive from your taking 
my advice on this subject; it arises merely from a sincere wish 
to see Africa in a better situation than it is at present. I beg 
leave to observe that Mr. Kizell is my friend. I am, gentle- 
men, &c. &c. 

(Signed) E. H. COLUMBINE. 

Aiigust, 1810." 

The communications made to the governor by himself are 
very interesting, and contain much valuable information re- 
specting the soil, climate, chiefs, customs, slave-trade, &c. We 
can only find room for a few short extracts. After giving an 
account of his interview with some of their kings, or head- 
men, he describes the people in the following manner. 

" I will now describe how the natives live in this country. 
They are all alike, the great and the poor ; you cannot tell the 
master from the servant, at first. The servant has as much to 
say as his master, in common discourse, but not in a palaver, 
for that belongs only to the master. Of all people I have ever 
seen, I think they are the kindest. They will let none of their 
people want for victuals ; they will lend and not look for it 
again. They will even lend clothes to each other if they 
want to go any where. If strangers come, they will give them 
victuals for nothing; they will go out of their beds that stran- 
gers may sleep in them. The women are particularly kind. 
The men are very fond of palm wine. They love dancing ; 
they will dance all night. They have but little ; yet they are 
happy while that httle lasts. At times, they are greatly troubled 
with the slave trade, by some of them being caught, under 
different pretences. A man owes money, or some one of his 
family owes it ; or he has been guilty of adultery. In these 
cases, if unable to seize the parties themselves, they give him 
up to some one who is able, and who goes and takes him by 
force of arms. On one occasion, when I lived in the Sherbro, 
a number of armed men came to seize five persons living 
under me, v/ho, they said, had been thus given to them. We 
had a great quarrel — I would not give them up — we had five 
days' palaver — there were three chiefs against me. I told them 
if they did sell the people they caught at my place, I would 
complain to the governor. After five days' talk I recovered 
them. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 105 

" Sometimes I am astonished to see how contented they are 
with so little. I consider that happiness does not consist in 
plenty of goods. 

" Their land is so fertile, in some places, that it would sur- 
prise any man to see what a quantity of rice they will raise, 
on a small spot. As for fish, their rivers abound with it; they 
can get as much as they want. Their sheep and goats are 
very fine and fat. They have plenty of fowls ; also wild hogs, 
ducks, and geese. They do not salt their meat, but dry it over 
the fire. They do not work hard, except when they prepare 
their rice plantations, which is during two months in the spring, 
after which the men go and make canoes, or cut cam-wood, or 
carry the salt which the women have made, to sell for clothes 
or slaves. This is usually done in the rainy season, from June 
to September. They are not afraid of being wet, they will 
work in the rain. When they come home from working, their 
women give them warm water to wash their bodies, and oil to 
anoint themselves with. They (the women) have the hardest 
lot; they do all the drudgery; they beat the rice and fetch 
wood, make salt, plaster the houses, go a fishing with hand 
nets, make oil from the palm nuts which the men bring home. 
Their rice ripens in three months from the time it is sown; when 
it is cut, they put it under water, where it keeps sound and good. 
When they want to use it, they go into the water and get as 
much as they need. During the rainy season the low banks 
are overflowed; when the water goes away, it leaves the land 
moist, which is then planted, and will bring any thing to the 
greatest perfection. They have very good clay, of which the 
women make pols, which they sell for rice, cassada, and plan- 
tains. The cotton tree grows here in great abundance. I 
think the cotton would do for hats as well as fur. The men 
make straw hats. It is the men who sew the cloth into gar- 
ments; of the women, not one out of twenty knows how to 
sew. All the male children (of the Mahommedans) are cir- 
cumcised. 

" The king is poorer than any of his subjects. I have many 
a time gone into the houses of their kings; sometimes I have 
seen one box, and a bed made of sticks on the ground, and a 
mat, or two country cloths on the bed. He is obliged to work 
himself, if he has no wives and children. He has only the 
name of king, without the power; he cannot do as he pleases. 



106 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

When there is a palaver, he must have it settled before the rest 
of the old men, who are looked npon as much as the king, 
and the people will give ear to them as soon as they will to the 
king." 

On Sabbath, March 29th, our missionary, in company with 
several gentlemen, attended public worship in Regent's Town, 
and visited the Christian Institution. " This is a large school 
established by the Church Missionary Society for the children 
of re-captured Africans. It stands on Leicester mountain, three 
miles from Freetown. Regent's Town is two miles beyond 
Leicester mountain, and has a population of twelve or thirteen 
hundred, who have been liberated from the slave-ships by the 
Vice-Admiralty court of Sierra Leone, within two or three 
years past. The boys in the Institution are taught to work, and 
had cleared eighty or a hundred acres of land. This Institution 
accommodates about two hundred children of both sexes, who 
are mostly named and supported by individual benefactors in 
England. Thus are children, once destined to foreign slavery, 
now fed, clothed, governed, and carefully taught in the Chris- 
tian religion. Assembled in the church to worship, they are a 
spectacle of grateful admiration, and their state happily exem- 
plifies the divine origin and holy principles of the religion in 
which they are taught. The wilderness buds and blossoms as 
the rose. We saw here two hundred children in the schools. 
On the Sabbath morning more than a thousand of the children 
and people were present in the church, neatly dressed, sober, 
attentive to the reading of the word of God, and uniting their 
voices to sing his praise." 

On Monday, March 30, 1S18, Messrs. Mills and Burgess, 
accompanied by Kizell, Martin, and Anderson, their pilot, left 
Sierra Leone. Every remark entered by Mills in his journal 
indicates the pious enthusiasm of his benevolent mind. While 
their little vessel was departing he says, "The high ridges of 
the mountains present a pleasing aspect, and the more so, as 
we know that hosannahs are sung to Zion's King, upon their 
very summit. So God has kindly ordered, the chain is broken, 
and the captive slave is free." 

On the 31st of March they sailed by the Bananas, and the 
appearance of the land is thus described: "The main land is in 
sight. The ridges run nearly parallel to the coast. Some 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 107 

more inland ridges overtop the nearest. All are covered with 
trees and shrubs to their summits." 

Understanding that a man named Caulker, had influence with 
the chiefs along the coast, they called upon him, and explained 
the object of their visit to Africa. He expressed his approba- 
tion, and said their design was like Paul Cuffee's, whom he 
had known. He recommended Caramanca river as a suitable 
place; but this was too near the territory of Sierra Leone, 
which owns the land on the north bank of that river. He said, 
that he thought it would be a very good thing if a colony 
could be founded at Sherbro. To show his good will, he said 
he would send his son and nephew as far as the Plantains and 
to Sherbro with them, who would tell his desire to favour the 
enterprise; and his wish that the chiefs there should do the 
same. 

This man entertained our missionaries and their company 
hospitably, spreading a table for them, furnished with boiled 
fowls and cassada ; and when they were coming away, gave 
them a sheep, which was about equal in value to the present 
which he had received from them. 

At the Plantains, they visited George Caulker, nephew of 
the former, who had been educated in England. When they 
laid before him their plan, he observed, that he was afraid, 
" that hereafter the colony might claim more territory than it 
ought: that Sierra Leone had now become powerful, and had 
already taken a considerable extent of territory under their 
direction." He said, "the kings would have less objection 
to an American colony, if the people of colour were to govern 
the colony themselves ; they are afraid that the white men will 
take their country from them; but they will not have the same 
fears of their brethren." He was assured that there would be 
no objection to this, so soon as suitable coloured men could be 
found to undertake the government; that the interference of 
the white people, would only be to give stability and security 
to the colony; and that they would be looking forward to the 
time when the people of colour should govern themselves. 
Upon this, he expressed his satisfaction ; and concurred with 
his uncle, in recommending the mouth of the Caramanca, as a 
suitable site for the colony. 

On the first of April they reached Sherbro Island, which is 



108 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

usually estimated to be twenty-two miles long, and twelve 
broad. The water they found to be good, and the surface 
fifteen or twenty feet above the sea. They saw the mouth of 
the Bagroo river, which had been recommended as a good 
place to begin a colony. Within a quarter of a mile of the 
shore, they found seven fathoms depth of water. They also 
visited York Island, which is only two miles in length, and 
one in breadth; and is very low, but has a good soil. 

On the next day, they came to Bendou, where King 
Somano ruled over several villages. They found him in his 
palaver house, and another chief by the name of Safah, with 
him. Their palaver with these chiefs was not very pleasant, 
especially, as they would enter into no conversation until pre- 
sented with two jugs of rum; and when Somano returned their 
visit on board the vessel, he insisted on rum, as his undoubted 
right; and was not pleased, that he could not be gratified. 
The palaver house was nothing but a conical roof supported 
by posts. Near to it was a little thatched hut, not larger than 
a spread umbrella, called the Witch or Devil's house. It 
was filled with shells, bits of cloth, &c. There was also, at no 
great distance, a thicket of shrubs, and vines, almost impene- 
trable, called the deviVs bush. If a woman should be found 
in this bush, she would suffer death. 

" In this land," say they, "where altars are erected to devils, 
we sung the hymn, ' Salvation! the joyful sound!' A num- 
ber of the natives were present at our evening prayer, and 
behaved well." 

On the fourth of April, they visited King Sherbro. Kizell 
had prepared the way by a palaver, in which he explained the 
object of the visit of the missionaries, and the advantages 
which would result to the natives from the establishment of 
such a colony. Couber, the king's son, introduced them to 
his father. The old man was sitting in his hut, barefooted, 
but wearing a three-cornered hat on his head, dressed in a 
calico gown, with a large silver-headed cane in his left hand, 
and in his right, a horse tail, which is the badge of royalty. 
He appeared to be about sixty years of age. The palaver was 
managed on the one side by Kizell, and on the other by Cou- 
ber. They complained that Caulker had sent them no present, 
and that Somano and Safah had been called upon before King 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 109 

Sherbro. The palaver lasted between three and four hours, 
without coming to any point. 

The character which the missionaries give of Kizell is very- 
pleasing. " He is," say they, " a second Paul Cuffee. He has 
a good mind and considerable knowledge. His writings dis- 
cover him to be a man of sense and worth. He has a gpod 
heart, and no one can be more anxious for the temporal and 
spiritual welfare of Africans and their descendants. He has 
enlarged views, and believes with the fullest confidence, that 
the time has arrived, when the descendants of Africans abroad, 
shall begin to return to their own country. His mind relies on 
the promise of God, 'Ethiopia shall soon stretch forth her hands 
unto God.' He says, if we can fix on a proper place for a 
colony, our people may come out by hundreds and thousands, 
and we need not fear the consequences, only sending some men 
of education to be their conductors and guides. Africa is 

THE LAND OF BLACK MEN, AND TO AFRICA THEY MUST AND 

WILL COME." " As to land/' he says, " it belongs to Africans 
abroad as well as those in the country. (It is at present a wide 
and fertile wilderness; but it may be made to bud and blossom 
as the rose.) They have not forfeited their inheritance by 
being carried by force from their country. The good people 
in America have only to help them to get back, and assist them 
a year or two, until they can help themselves. Then if they 
will not work, the fault is their own. They certainly will not 
freeze nor starve. Let any class of the people of colour come, 
only give us a few who will be good leaders of the rest." 

He urges the plan of colonization, among other reasons, on 
the ground that "it will prevent insurrection among the slaves — 
remove bad men, who will not have the same opportunity to 
do mischief here as there — bring into this country some good 
men, who will shine as lights in this dark world — give an 
opportunity to masters who are disposed to release their slaves, 
and thus promote a gradual emancipation — provide a home for 
many oppressed freemen, and confer infinite blessings on this 
country." Mr. Kizell thinks, the greater part of the people of 
colour, who are now in America, will yet return to Africa. 

While Mr. Kizell was in Sherbro with the missionaries, he 
saved five or six persons from death, who had been condemned 
on suspicion of witchcraft to drink the red water. He con- 
versed much with the kings and people on the advantages of a 
10 



110 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

colony among them, and found the young people very favour- 
ably disposed. 

He would not allow that the colonization scheme originated 
in America, but insisted that it had its origin in heaven: and 
he has much greater confidence than the managers of the socie- 
ty, that their plans, if pursued with prudence and vigour, will 
be completely successful. On the subject of appointing a gov- 
ernor his opinions were, that, for a while, it may be best to 
place a white man at the head of the colony, unless such a 
coloured man as Paul Cuffee could be obtained, in which case 
it would be wise to appoint him. He insisted that great care 
should be taken in selecting the first colonists, that they should 
be men of good character ; and that some white men of firm 
integrity should accompany them as judges and counsellors. 

As Sherbro refused to carry on the palaver unless Samano 
and Safab were also present, they were sent for, and arrived 
on the 8lh of April. 

After days of mutual consultation together, the missionaries 
were informed that the kings were ready to receive them into 
council. After long discussion, king Sherbro agreed that he 
would grant them a place for the reception of the colonists; but 
alleged, that before any territory could be granted, all the 
head-men must be consulted. The substance of the agreement 
was written in a book, and one copy left with him. 

The missionaries now visited some other places on the coast. 
and formed an acquaintance with some other chiefs, before 
their return to Sierra Leone. 

King Cauber off'ered to send two of his sons to America for 
education, if any captain of a vessel would take charge of them. 
And when the missionaries left Sherbro, he expressed a strong 
desire that they would return again. He gave them a goat, 
and walking along the shore as they embarked, said in Eng- 
lish, " May God bless you, and give you a good journey to 
your country!" 

The missionaries remarked, that "The Africans, generally, 
appear cheerful and happy. 

"This land was once more populous than at present. 

"It is doubtful whether the population is now increasing; 
though the proportion of small children is very great. 

" I think I never saw so great a proportion of healthy active 
children, in any country." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. Ill 

On Sabbath, April 19th, we find the following short entry in 
the journal of the missionaries, which shows that their confi- 
dence of success in the enterprise, in which they were engaged, 
remained undiminished. 

" Darkness, gross darkness, covers the nations around us. 
But this darkness will be dispelled. The Sun of righteousness 
will yet arise upon them, with healing in his beams. In this 
consideration we do rejoice, and will rejoice." 

The missionaries ascended the Mano, a branch of the Ba- 
groo, a considerable distance, and found the country rising into 
hills and mountains. They say, " It seems desirable to obtain 
the country to the right of the Mano. It is high and airy. It 
extends back eighty or ninety miles to the Timmanee country. 
It is called a good country by those who have travelled over 
it. A brook is spoken of which empties into the INIano, one or 
two miles above the rapids, and extends far into the interior. 
After we leave the little villages on the Mano, there are no 
inhabitants until you reach the Timmanees. The extent, 
vacant population, and probable fertility, render it highly 
eligible." — " To this may be added the peninsula between the 
Mano and Bagroo rivers, which includes the Mano mountain, 
as the other tract does the Perra mountain. These alone form 
a vacant region of three thousand square miles, and include 
mountains, rivers, forests, rapids, and springs of water." 

They went up the Banga, as far as Bandasuma, and paid a 
visit to Pa Poosoo, who received them very kindly, and ex- 
pressed high approbation of their design; and said, that when 
called upon to vote with the chiefs, he would say, '' Give 
land." 

Mr. Mills, after they left Sierra Leone, on his return, was 
seized with dysentery, and expired on the voyage. Although 
this man of God died early, he had accomplished much in a 
short life. He was the person who first suggested the idea of 
sending missionaries to the heathen from the American church- 
es; and fully intended to go himself, but was prevented by bad 
health. He entered with all his heart into every benevolent 
enterprise, whether proposed by himself or by others. A brief 
memoir of his life would be in place here; but his biography 
has already been written by the Rev. Dr. Spring of New York, 
where full justice is done to the memory of this distinguished 
philanthropist and eminent Christian. 



112 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

CHAPTER VII. 

FIRST EXPEDITION TO AFRICA IN THE ELIZABETH. 

The American Colonizalion Society being satisfied from the 
report of the Rev. Mr. Burgess, and the journal of the lamented 
Mills, that the estabhshment of a colony on the western coast 
of Africa was a practicable enterprise, were solicitous, in the 
commencement of the year 1819, to send out a select company 
of black people, under suitable superintendence, to commence 
the contemplated settlement. And it seemed to be a special 
interposition of Providence in favour of their design, that Con- 
gress, on the 3d of March, the last day of their session, passed 
an act, authorizing the President of the United States to insti- 
tute an agency in Africa, for the purpose of providing an asy- 
lum for such Africans as should be liberated by our ships of 
war, from vessels seized in violation of the provisions of the 
law for the suppression of the slave trade. This act without 
recognizing the plan of colonization, as it had been repeatedly 
commended by the society to the favourable notice of Congress, 
authorized a collateral measure, so nearly identified with it, as 
in effect, to subserve nearly the same purpose. The society, 
therefore, resolved to improve the advantage which was thus 
offered to them. In this view, it was determined to make the 
station of the government agency the site of the colonial settle- 
ment, and to incorporate in the settlement all the blacks deli- 
vered over by our ships of war to the American agent, as soon 
as the requisite preparations could be made for their accommo- 
dation. 

As a suitable person to be employed in this agency, the Rev. 
Samuel Bacon, a minister of the Protestant Episcopal church, 
was strongly recommended. This gentleman, though still 
young, had passed through an eventful hfe. Brought up in 
more than common ignorance, he was seized, when grown up, 
with an inextinguishable desire for learning ; and after encoun- 
tering and overcoming the most formidable obstacles, he suc- 
ceeded in completing a liberal education, at Harvard, He 
afterwards was occupied as a teacher, in Pennsylvania. He 
then received the commission of lieutenant in the corps of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATIOlir. 113 

marines, and, in a short time, was advanced to be a captain in 
tlie same. Finding leisure, however, from the duties of his 
profession, to study law, he qualified himself for the bar, and 
practised with success and reputation in the county of Adams, 
Pennsylvania, and adjacent counties. But having, about this 
time, come under very deep and abiding impressions of religion, 
he felt it to be his duty, as it was his strong desire, to preach 
the gospel of Christ. Being naturally of an active and enter- 
prising disposition, Mr. Bacon devoted much attention to the 
institution of Sunday schools, and also to their instruction. 
His exertions, in this useful and benevolent department of 
labour, will be long held in remembrance in York, Pennsyl- 
vania, where he then resided. He first entered the communion 
of the German Lutheran church, of York, which is much the 
largest in the place; but, in a few months, he transferred his 
ecclesiastical relation to the Episcopal church, in the same 
town. 

After having pursued the requisite course of reading for 
some time, he visited Philadelphia, and received ordination 
from the hands of the venerable bishop White. Soon after 
Mr. Bacon's entrance into holy orders, he was selected as a 
suitable agent to travel through the State, and present the cause 
of the Bible, in behalf of the Philadelphia Bible Society. 
This work was congenial to his ardent mind. He entered on 
it with alacrity, and fulfilled the duties of his office with 
wisdom, energy, and fidelity. 

Scarcely had he brought this agency to a close, when he was 
fixed upon as a suitable person to be employed as a govern- 
ment agent, to go to Africa. 

But before he received his appointment from government, 
he entered with zeal into the service of the American Colonizar 
tion Society, in which he continued until the eighth of January, 
1820, when he received from the Executive of the United 
States, a commission and instructions, for the agency to which 
he had been previously designated. 

The government having determined to send a transport and 
a sloop of war to the coast of Africa, for the purpose of carry- 
ing out two agents, and as many mechanics and labourers as 
might be necessary to prepare a receptacle for any persons that 
might be liberated from American slave ships, the sloop of war 
Cyane was put in commission, and the Elizabeth, a merchant 
10* 



114 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

ship of three hundred tons, was chartered for this service. 
The government agreed to receive on board the EUzabeth, 
such free blacks recommended by the society, as might be 
required for the purposes of the agency. Accordingly, about 
thirty families, comprehending eighty-nine individuals, of dif- 
ferent sexes and ages, were selected from a much greater 
number, and were directed to repair to New York, where the 
vessels were lying. Mr. Bacon was directed to proceed to 
New York, to receive these people. He, accordingly, left 
Philadelphia on the 26th of November. After encountering 
many difficulties, and experiencing much perplexity, Mr. Bacon 
left New York on the 27th of December for the city of Wash- 
ington. Here he remained until the ISth of January, 1S21 — 
which time was profitably spent in preparation for the voyage; 
and especially in frequent conferences with the officers of 
government and the managers of the American Colonization 
Society. 

Having visited his friends in York, Pennsylvania, he repaired 
to New York again, where he was joined by the other govern- 
ment agent, Mr. John P. Bankson, and Dr. Samuel A. Crozer, 
the agent of the Colonization Society, and found the people se- 
lected for tlie colony, already assembled. Monday the 31st of 
January was fixed for their departure, and was an interesting 
day. The people assembled at the African church to the number 
of several thousand, to witness the solemnities expected on the 
occasion, and to join in a procession to the vessels, then lying 
in the North river. But it being apprehended that great con- 
fusion and perhaps tumult might be the result of admitting the 
multitude to rush into the church, the doors were kept closed. 
And Mr. Bacon foreseeing that some disaster might be the 
consequence of such a multitude assembling at the water, 
while the crowd were on their way to the vessel, mounted on 
a piazza, and addressed the multitude. In the mean time, the 
emigrants were secretly conveyed to the ship; and at the close 
of his address, he announced to the people the fact, that the 
emigrants were on board. 

Before the wind proved favourable for getting to sea, the 
Elizabeth became ice-bound, in which condition she remained 
until the 6th of February. 

In the organization of the scheme, Messrs. Bankson and 
Bacon had been appointed collegiate agents of the government 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 115 

of the United States to whom the direction of the expedition 
was entrusted. The people were all considered as attached to 
this joint agency, and to remain entirely subject to its control, 
as long after their arrival on the coast, as their services should 
be needful, or until they should receive a regular discharge. 
Their official instructions required them to make the Island of 
Sherbro, on the coast of Africa, their first destination ; and either 
there or on some more eligible situation to land the people and 
stores, and proceed to erect cottages for the accommodation of 
themselves, and at least three hundred captured Africans. 
They were likewise instructed to plant and cultivate corn and 
vegetables, and by their own industry to provide subsistence 
for themselves. 

Dr. Samuel A. Crozer was the sole agent of the American 
Colonization Society, who was entrusted with the goods and 
stores sent out by the society, for the purpose of conciliating 
the favour of the native chiefs, purchasing lands, and minis- 
tering to the health and comfort of the people. The selection 
and purchase of a territory, for the contemplated settlement, 
were committed to this agent ; who was instructed to avail 
himself of the advice and good offices of the agents of the gov- 
ernment. 

In planning this expedition great confidence had been placed 
in the statements of Messrs. Mills and Burgess, in relation to 
the friendly disposition of the natives on and near the Sherbro 
river, the salubrity of the climate, and the eligibility of the site 
which they had recommended as a place of settlement. The 
instructions of the agents were framed in general conformity to 
the views entertained by these exploring agents, when on the 
spot. But these gentlemen had not remained there long enough 
to become well acquainted with all the circumstances, which 
afterwards proved unfavourable. 

The American Colonization Society in the prospect of the 
purchase of lands and settlement of the emigrants in Africa, 
drew up and delivered to Dr. Crozer the following rules to be 
observed in the distribution of lands to settlers, which are here 
published as affording a view of the equitable principles on 
which the society intended to act. 

" Every man arriving, married or marrying in the colony, 
within one year from its commencement, to receive twenty-five 
acres for himself, twenty-four for his wife, and ten for each 



116 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

child, as near the town as convenient, and every family is enti- 
tled to a lot in town. 

" Every single man to receive thirty acres in the country, 
and a lot in town. 

" Minors, and females not included in the former classes, to 
be entitled each to twenty-five acres of land without the town. 

" Labourers and mechanics, as a motive to industry and good 
conduct, to receive, at the discretion of the agents, each ten 
acres in addition to the allotment above specified. 

" The agents only are entitled to buy or negotiate with the 
natives for land. 

" The colonists, in order to hold their lots and lands, must 
reside in the colony, and cultivate them. 

" Grants forfeitable by misconduct." 

The voyage was, on the whole, prosperous, and not very 
tedious ; but an unhappy quarrel arose between the ship's crew 
and some of the emigrants, which, at one time, exhibited a 
very threatening aspect. And, indeed, during the remainder 
of the voyage, it was evident that a mutinous spirit existed, 
which would be likely to break out and give trouble, as soon 
as a favourable opportunity should offer. 

On the 9th of March, the Elizabeth entered the harbour of 
Sierra Leone. The first people whom they saw in Africa, 
were the Kroomen, who are always waiting to perform any 
labour which may be needed by the ships which arrive. In- 
deed, they perform nearly all the hard work which is done at 
Sierra Leone. The following description is given of them in 
Mr. Bacon's journal. " Their country is on the Guinea coast, 
in latitude 5° north, whence they sail in their canoes to the 
different European ports, on the coast, and hire themselves at 
the rate of four dollars per month, and are frequently absent 
from home for several years. Their whole dress, when em- 
ployed in their work, consists of a single piece of cotton or 
bafta. Our people clothed those who came on board decently." 

As soon as they cast anchor, they were visited by a number 
of officers from shore, and saw several emigrants whom Paul 
Cuftee hadbrouglit from America; all of whom were respecta- 
ble in their appearance, and happy in their circumstances. At 
the time of the arrival of the Elizabeth, both the passengers 
and crew were in a state of perfect health: and the evening 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 117 

after their arrival was spent by the agents and emigrants in 
thanksgiving and praise. 

It may be well to mark the first impression made on such a 
mind as Bacon's, by a view of the natives, in whose welfare 
he felt so deep an interest. Having visited the Kroomen's 
village, he exclaims, "What a field for evangelical labour 
amongst them ! How lamentable, that these fine people do 
not attract the notice of the religious world !" And in a letter 
to a friend, in Philadelphia, he says, "You may depend on it, 
there is work for us here; there is work for missionaries, for 
teachers, for good men of all descriptions. I am struck with 
wonder at the native Africans. The sickly and depressed 
countenance of a Philadelphia coloured man, is not to be seen 
amongst them. A noble aspect, a dignified mien, a frank and 
open countenance, is the entire demeanour of the wild man." 
The agents visited Governor Macarthy, and were courteously 
treated, and invited to dinner, which was a sumptuous one, 
supplied entirely from Africa. Mr. Bacon seems to have been 
filled with enthusiasm, when he surveyed the state of things at 
this colony. He even seemed to perceive a wisdom in the 
climate being so adverse to the health of the white man, and 
exclaimed, " Africa, my heart bleeds for thee, and thy scat- 
tered and weeping children ! Is it not of the justice of God, 
that we, the white people, cannot exist in this climate ? God 
only can keep it for Africa." 

The Cyane parted from the Elizabeth immediately after 
leaving the harbour of New York, and nothing had been seen 
of her during the whole voyage. The charter party of the 
Elizabeth gave the agents no authority to detain her over a few 
days, after their arrival on the coast. This was, undoubtedly, 
a great oversight in the plan of the expedition, and resulted in 
great misfortunes. Kizell, of whom we have in the former 
chapter given an account, and of whom Messrs. Mills and 
Burgess had formed a high opinion, both as to his intelligence 
and integrity, and had strongly recommended him to the Board, 
was at the distance of forty leagues ; and as the soundings at 
the mouth of the Sherbro were unknown, it was doubtful 
whether the Elizabeth could be brought down to that place, 
on account of the shoalness of the water. Under these cir- 
cumstances Mr. Bankson, in a small vessel, undertook to ex- 
plore the Sherbro sound, and to provide a suitable place for 



118 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the lodging of the stores, and accommodation of the people, 
until a site could be obtained for a permanent settlement. 

Mr. Bacon, to expedite the business, purchased the schooner 
Augusta, of a hundred tons burden, on board of which a part 
of the Ehzabeth's cargo was transferred; and both vessels 
immediately proceeded to sea. When they arrived at the 
entrance of Sherbro sound, it was found that the Elizabeth 
could proceed no further, with safety. Mr. Bankson having 
returned on board, from his visit to Kizell's residence, made a 
report highly favourable to the wishes of his colleagues, both 
as to the facilities of landing, and the conveniences for accom- 
modating the people, and depositing the stores, at that place. 
Kizell had also oftered his services and influence with the king, 
to obtain land for them on the continent. Animated and en- 
couraged by this report, they determined without delay to have 
the people and stores conveyed from the Elizabeth to Kizell's 
town. The distance was about six leagues. On the 20lh of 
March, Mr. Bacon arrived off Campelar, the name of Kizell's 
settlement. By Kizell he was received in the kindest manner. 
'•He wept," says Bacon, "as we walked together to his house." 
The people were all landed on that day, and went into the 
huts provided by Kizell; and in the evening they all resorted 
to the little church and had a joyful season of prayer. " The 
sight of natives," says Bacon, " mingling in our morning and 
evening worship, and even joining the tune and some of the 
words of our songs of praise, was a refreshing one. Mr. 
Kizell," he goes on to say, " is a pious man, and has kept up 
worship among them, a long time. I exhorted in English; he 
in Sherbro. This was an affecting scene of devotion: it was 
worth hving an age to participate in it, with our feelings." 
These favourable impressions of Kizell's piety were sadly 
changed, in the process of further intercourse: whether on 
just grounds, it is difficult for us to determine. We shall, 
however, state the facts as they occur, and leave the reader to 
form his own judgment of the sincerity and integrity of this 
man. 

The Cyane having now arrived at Sierra Leone, Mr. Bacon 
was sent for to advise in regard to the future employment of 
this vessel on the coast. He therefore left Campelar on the 
24th of March. On his way, he visited George Caulker, at the 
Plantain Islands, of which he was the proprietor. The following 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 119 

is the account which he gives of this slave-dealer. " On our 
arrival at the Plantains, about twelve o'clock at night, Caulker 
was in bed. He was awakened and received us at the gate of 
his fortress. He had a white robe Wrapped about him, and 
wore a turban of figured cambric. His reception of us was 
friendly. His house is covered with thatch in the native style, 
but has in the centre, one room finished in the European style. 
He gave up to Lieutenant Stringham and myself^ his own bed- 
room; and afforded comfortable accommodation to the boat- 
men. He has the air and manners of a Scottish chieftain. 
He was evidently suspicious of the motives of our visit, and 
was far from approving our errand to the coast. He has a 
battery of five dismounted guns, a high wall on two sides of 
his enclosure, and ranges of houses on the other sides. He is 
a man of intelligence; genteel in his address; has many wives; 
and possesses considerable influence." 

Having arrived on board the Cyane, and after consultation 
it being resolved, that the schooner Augusta should be manned 
from the Cyane, Mr. Bacon, Lieutenant Townsend, and six 
men left Sierra Leone, in an open boat, and reached Campelar, 
on the 30th of March. From this time till the 3d of April, the 
agents were busily employed in removing to land the goods 
and stores on board the Elizabeth; in erecting store houses, 
and providing accommodations for the people. 

The island of Sherbro is about ten leagues in length, and 
is covered with a luxuriant vegetable growth: and consists 
wholly of an alluvial soil, which, like the adjacent country, 
rises but a few feet above the sea. It is separated from that 
part of the coast which bears the same name, by a sound, from 
one and a half to four leagues in breadth, navigable for small 
vessels. 

Campelar is situated near the middle of the island, on the 
east side; and the ground on Avhich it stands, with much of 
the contiguous country, is, during the rains, extensively inun- 
dated. In addition to the manifest insalubrity of its situation, 
the water is so strongly impregnated with foreign substances, 
as to be rendered highly offensive to the taste. On this unfa- 
vourable spot, they had been induced to place their stores, and 
to enter into an agreement with the proprietor, to have the 
emigrants remain, until they could procure a territory suitable 
for a permanent settlement, from some of the kings on the 



130 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

neighbouring continent: in effecting which, Kizell promised all 
his influence and cooperation. 

The Sherbro country, on the continent, is distributed among 
a number of petty chiefs, who all acknowledge to their king a 
subjection which is merely nominal; for they possess absolute 
power in their respective districts. 

The territory which had been designated by the former 
agents, and was the subject of the approaching negotiation, 
commenced about thirty miles from Campelar, at the head of 
navigation, in the Bagroo river. King Fara, who resided on 
the island, was the reputed proprietor of the tract, but had not 
authority to cede it, without the advice and consent of King 
Sherbro and the chiefs. 

Mr. Bacon soon perceived in Kizell a disposition to procras- 
tinate the general council of the chiefs, for which he was 
unable to account; he therefore determined to visit Fara at his 
own residence. Of his reception, and the conference which 
ensued, the following narrative is given by Mr. Bacon. 

"We were received and seated in the palaver or council 
house, on native mats. The king and head-men of the tribe, 
were arranged on the opposite side: and after our presents had 
been produced and accepted, the palaver began. I stated 
through Mr. Kizell, the objects of our visit to Africa, and the 
improvements and benefits likely to accrue to the native tribes, 
from our religion, agriculture, and the mechanic arts. He lis- 
tened to my words, and said they were all true; and professed 
to be highly gratified. He said he owned the land, where we 
wanted to sit down, and would sell it; but king Sherbro must 
first be consulted, as he was king of the whole country. He 
promised to come in two days to Campelar, and give me 
further information. I am more and more pleased with the 
Sherbro people. They are kind and attentive to our wants. 
The country is capable of becoming a continued garden. My 
health is excellent: I know not that it was ever better." 

Mr. Bacon's solicitude led him to visit several other chiefs, 
from all of whom he obtained a ready consent to his plan af 
purchasing land; but still no steps were taken for a general 
council, and his confidence in Kizell began to be considerably 
shaken. When he returned from this visit to Campelar, he 
found that several of the people exhibited unequivocal symp- 
toms of a violent attack of fever. These symptoms consisted. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 121 

of pains in the head, back, and Hmbs, attended with lassitude, 
depression of spirits, and inflammation of the eyes. On the 
next day the number of the sick amounted to fifteen. The 
people now manifested the utmost impatience to remove from 
Campelar, on account, both of the badness of the water, and 
the insalubrity of the situation. A spirit of dissatisfaction with 
the agents began also to be too evident to be mistaken. The 
freight of the Elizabeth was not yet entirely transferred to the 
depot on the island; and while Mr. Bacon was kept busy hi 
attending to the safe deposit of the stores on shore, Mr. Bank- 
son and Dr. Crozer were engaged on board the ship, and re- 
ceiving but little aid from the emigrants, they became much 
exhausted. 

Mr. Bacon's entry in his journal on the 6th of April is as 
follows: "We have now twenty-one sick of a fever. We try 
the country practice of bathing, and find it successful in some 
cases. We have not tried it sufficiently to test its efficacy. 
The schooner is now absent for the remainder of the freight, 
and Dr. Crozer is with her. Mr. Bankson is sick:— I suppose 
on board the vessel. I have heard the complaints of the peo- 
ple, this day, because there is no good water to be had in the 
island — because they were brought to this place — because I did 
not take possession of the land by force — because the people 
are visited with sickness — because there is no fresh meat, sugar, 
molasses, flour, and other luxuries to be distributed to them — 
because I cannot give them better tobacco — because the '/;«/«- 
ver^ is not over — becanse I take the best measures I can to 
bring it to a conclusion — because the houses are not bet- 
ter — and because they have meat and bread to eat. They 
complain of every thing they have; and are clamorous for 
every thing they have not. We have suflfered much from the 
depredations of our own people ! Even our high-toned profes- 
sors have been repeatedly detected in petty thefts, falsehoods, 
and mischiefs of the most disgraceful nature. I am pained to 
the heart with these indications of gross hypocrisy. It is a 
dark picture — but its shades are truth." 

On the evening of the 7th of April, the number of the sick 
had increased to twenty-five. What rendered the atflictiou 
greater. Dr. Crozer, who was almost the only individual attach- 
ed to the service, capable of prescribing and preparing the ne- 
cessary medicines, was absent. Mr. Bacon gave his own per- 
il 



122 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

sonal attendance to the sick, and administered with his own 
hand, tlie best remedies which he could devise. On the same 
day he preached to those in heaUh, preparatory to the commu- 
nion; and addressed the natives through Kizell. 

The affairs of the colony, every day, grew worse and worse. 
The 8th of April was a day of aggravated distress. The 
schooner returned bringing back Messrs. Bankson, Crozer, and 
Townsend, all seriously ill, as also were two of the schooner's 
crew. Five more on shore were added to the sick, reported the 
day before — making in all thirty-five. Of these, much the great- 
er part were adult persons. The most useful of the colonists 
were, nearly to an individual, in the number. Twenty-five of 
the sick exhibited symptoms of a dangerous character; and all 
appeared to be hourly getting worse. Almost the whole care 
of the sick, as well as of those in health, now devolved on Mr. 
Bacon. " I passed the day," he writes, " in visiting the sick, in- 
quiring into their wants, and administering medicines. Where- 
ever I move, I meet with little besides groans and tears. The 
fever is bilious, and in many cases attended with delirium. 
Among the causes of the sickness, I reckon the following as 
the principal: — a too free use of the country fruits — the neglect 
of personal cleanliness — alternate exposure to the sun, and the 
dampness of the night — the want of flooring in the huts — con- 
stitutions not seasoned to the climate; and in the case of those 
employed about the schooner, excessive fatigue and anxiety of 
mind, and remaining for hours in the water and in wet clothes, 
while landing the goods. Many of the sick absolutely refuse 
to take medicines; some declaring that they will sooner die 
than submit to do it." 

It is somewhat remarkable, that in this list of causes, Mr. 
Bacon makes no mention of the bad water, to which the sick- 
ness was afterwards almost solely attributed. 

The deleterious nature of the African climate, to those not 
acclimated, seems scarcely to have entered into their calcula- 
tion. It is now well understood, that the African fever must 
be expected to be endured, by all who settle in that region, 
unless their constitutions have been formed under a warm 
climate. No doubt, however, the causes mentioned greatly 
aggravated the disease; especially the fatigue, and exposure to 
the sun and night air. This acclimating fever, in many in- 
stances, has been very slight, and always the danger is tenfold 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 123 

greater to the white, than the black man. It is to be hoped, 
however, that new methods of treatment will soon be disco- 
vered, which will disarm the disease of most of its terrors, even 
to the white man. 

It will readily be supposed, from the existing circumstances 
of the colony, that Mr. Bacon could not pay much attention to 
his own health. Indeed, he seems to have removed personal 
considerations entirely from his view, and to have devoted him- 
self unreservedly to the suffering people. In such cases the 
path of duty cannot be learned by the cool calculations of pru- 
dence; and the censure sometimes passed on persons who thus 
forget themselves for the sake of others, is commonly unjust. 
The account which he gives of his daily labours and trials, at 
this time, will be best expressed in his own words. 

" Who can describe the burden under which I am obliged to 
struggle, in feeding this people, enduring their complaints, 
listening to their tales of trouble, inquiring into their sufferings, 
administering medicines, labouring with my own hands for 
them, and toiling at the oar, and handling casks, in unloading 
the vessel, and landing the goods. In addition to all this, I 
have the spiritual concerns of the whole company to look after. 
I go without stockings entirely, often without shoes, scarcely 
wear a hat, and am generally without a coat ; I am up early, 
and not in bed till ten o'clock at night; I eat little, and seldom 
use other refreshment, except hard ship-bread, salt meat, and 
water. I labour more, and am more exposed to heat, and wet, 
and damp, and hunger, and thirst, than any one; and yet, 
blessed be God, I continue in health. In addition to all this, I 
have the weight of the whole interest on my mind, all the care, 
all the responsibility, all the anxiety. But God be praised, I 
have peace within. There are eight entire families sick, 
amongst whom there is not one able to cook his own food, or 
wait upon a child. God! who can help, but thou?" 

It might naturally be expected, that such difhculties and 
calamities would have cooled Mr. Bacon's zeal for coloniza- 
tion. Let us hear then what he says on this subject. " Is it 
asked, do I yet say, colonize Africa ? I reply, yes. He that 
has seen ninety-five native Africans landed together in America, 
and remarked the effects of the change of climate through the 
first year, has seen them as sickly as these. Every sudden 
and unnatujral transition, produces illness. The surprising fer- 



124 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tility of the African soil; the mildness of the cHmate during a 
great part of the year; the numerous commercial advantages; 
the stores of fish, and herds of wild animals to be found here, 
invite her scattered children home. As regards myself, I 
counted the cost of engaging in the service before I left 
America. I came to these shores to die, and any thing better 
than death, is better than I expected." 

On the 9th of April, which was Sunday, Mr. Bacon admin- 
istered the holy sacrament of the Lord's Supper to such of the 
company as were Episcopalians, and some Methodists, and at 
the close observed, ''We had a sweet season." Mr. Bankson 
and several of the people were delirious during the day. None 
appeared to have past the crisis of the disease, and some new 
cases had occurred. Those who were sick on board the 
schooner, had not been removed to land, and it was the wish 
of Dr. Crozer and Lieutenant Townsend, that she should be 
sent to Sierra Leone, but unfavourable winds prevented. 

The wet season was now approaching, and the impatience 
of the people to be removed from Campelar became so great, 
that in a written memorial which they presented, they expressed 
the intention of taking the direction of affairs into their own 
hands. Upon which they were assembled and remonstrated 
with, after which their groundless agitation subsided, and their 
disorderly purpose was abandoned. 

It had now become apparent, that Kizell had employed a 
secret influence to produce and aggravate the disaffection of 
the people. Mr. Bacon determined, therefore, to rely no longer 
on his mediation or agency, in conducting the negotiations. 
As no evidence is given of this man's duplicity and dishonesty, 
we of course cannot judge of his conduct, except so far as the 
opinion of Mr. Bacon may be our guide; but it is difficult for 
us to conceive, what motive he could have for promoting dis- 
aftection among the people, as he did not wish them to leave 
his place. In such a state of distress and privation, the mind 
of the most judicious person may be easily infected with 
groundless suspicion. As this subject will come up again, it is 
best that the reader should suspend his judgment of Kizell's 
unfaithfulness, until the whole evidence is before him. 

Mr. Bacon, in his intense anxiety to obtain a place for a per- 
manent settlement, went himself to visit King Kouber, a son 
of King Sherbro, at his town, on the Bagroo; but the interview 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 125 

was without any present beneficial result. When he returned 
on the 12th, he found the sickness not in the least abated. Dr. 
Crozer, apprehending a fatal issue in his own case, formally 
committed his agency to the Rev. Daniel Coker, a coloured 
man, of the Methodist denomination, to which he himself also 
belonged; and awaited the closing scene of his life with com- 
posure. One person died on shore, this day, and several new 
cases of fever occurred. On board the Augusta, a very un- 
pleasant event took place. Mr. Townsend in a fit of delirium, 
came out of his berth, on deck, and fell overboard, and was 
with great difficulty saved from a watery grave; and the vio- 
lence of the fever was increased by the accident. On the 
15th of April, the number of the sick amounted to forty; on 
which day, Dr. Crozer died on board the Augusta. 

On the 16th, Lieutenant John S. Townsend departed this 
life; and also, one of the sick on shore. The seamen of the 
Augusta carried the remains of Messrs. Crozer and Townsend 
on shore, and buried them with the honours of war. 

Mr. Bankson appeared to be convalescent, and was removed 
on shore; but Mr. Dugan, a young man who accompanied 
Mr. Bacon, was now seized: and on the following day, Mr. 
Bacon himself began to feel unwell; and on the two following 
days his disorder increased. He therefore adjusted his ac- 
counts; and began to contemplate the prospect of his own end. 
The heavy weight of care and anxiety which burdened his 
mind, proved very unfavourable to his recovery. His chief 
concern to the last, seemed to be for the people of his charge. 
In contemplating his own death, he saw little, except a bright 
and boundless expanse of glory, piercing with its light the 
gloom which hung over the dying scene. But his heart was 
wrung with the contemplation of the event, as it would aftect 
the colonists and the success of the expedition. On this theme 
he vented his feelings in the most pathetic language. But even 
in this heaviest, and doubtless, his last trial, he found relief, by 
a vigoroits effort of faith in the mercy of God; and by ulti- 
mately confiding in the wisdom and righteousness of all his 
purposes. The last expression which he committed to paper, 
arising out of the gloomy prospect of the colony, was accom- 
panied by the words, " Thy will be done." 

From the 22d of April, to the 28th, there was no intelligent 
friend near him to observe the progress of his symptoms, or 
11* 



126 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

administer the medicines and comforts which his case de- 
manded. He had resigned himself into the hands of God, and 
waited submissively, the result of his afflictive dispensation. 

The want of fraternal sympathy, and even common huma- 
nity was manifested, by the colony at Sierra Leone. Their 
own sufferings in a similar way, one would have thought might 
have taught them the duty of aiding their suffering brethren. 
But they not only neglected to send to Sherbro any medical 
aid, but when applied to for a physician, refused to comply 
with the request. While Mr. Bacon was lying sick, a schooner 
from Freetown anchored in sight of Campelar. Two persons 
were sent on shore in a barge, not to inquire after the health 
of the people, but on some trivial errand: one of them also 
was an acting physician ; but no entreaties of the dying, suffer- 
ing people, could prevail with them to remain, or to administer 
any medicine to the sick, or to give any advice. Indeed, they 
manifested a most unfeeling indifference. It was with much 
difficulty they could be prevailed on to agree to receive Mr. 
Bacon on board, who was anxious to be taken from Campelar, 
and to be conveyed to Sierra Leone, in the hope of obtaining 
medical aid. But when the boat in which they carried him 
came in sight of the schooner, they weighed anchor and set 
sail for Sierra Leone. He directed the boatmen to row hard 
to overtake the vessel; and though they followed at a moderate 
distance for six hours, they were unable to overtake her, and 
the schooner never slackened' sail to permit the boat to come 
up. Thus, for six hours was Mr. Bacon exposed to the burn- 
ing sun, while suffering under the African fever. He now 
directed the boatmen to make for the Plantain Islands. After 
spending the night on shore, he was on the 30th of April, con- 
veyed in the open boat to Cape Shilling, where he arrived in 
the evening of this day; and where he was very hospitably 
received by Captain William Randal, the superintendent of the 
station. And though he now received every friendly attention 
which his case required, his disorder was too far advanced to 
be subdued. His body and mind were both completely pros- 
trated; and though he made some feeble attempts to engage in 
conversation with his host, who seems to have been a pious 
man, his sentences were so broken, that it was evident that he 
was hastening rapidly to his end. 

On the first day of May, he uttered the last words which he 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 127 

ever spoke., and at four o'clock next morning, he fell asleep in 
Jesus. He was interred on the same day, in the burying ground 
attached to the church in that settlement. And though depo- 
sited by the hands of strangers, on a foreign and a pagan shore, 
his body rests under the sure protection of the Christian's Savi- 
our, and in " the certain hope of a glorious resurrection." 

Mr. Bankson, the colleague of Mr. Bacon, continued to 
amend for a few days, when he suffered a fatal relapse, and 
was carried off on the 13th of May. Mr. Dugan recovered, 
and returned to the United States. The whole crew of the 
Augusta fell a sacrifice to the deleterious climate, and of the 
emigrants about twenty or twenty-five died. The remainder 
in a few weeks regained their health. 

The life of Bacon was written by the lamented Ashmun, 
who followed in the same career, and lost his life in the 
same cause. Bacon's character was strongly marked; and 
his life, for its short period, was uncommonly eventful. Few 
cases are on record, in which any young man surmounted 
more obstacles in obtaining a liberal education; but his 
energy and perseverance carried him through every diffi- 
culty ; so that he was enabled at last, to take his first degree 
in the arts, in one of the oldest and most respectable institu- 
tions in the country. His constitution was ardent, and his 
mind naturally vigorous, and inclined to be enthusiastic. En- 
terprises promising great good to society and posterity, took 
a strong hold of his feelings, and in the prosecution of objects 
of public interest and importance, he almost entirely forgot 
himself, and was willing to run every risk, and endure every 
fatigue. The scheme of the American Colonization Society 
was one exactly suited to his ardent and benevolent mind; and 
although he was aware of the dangers which surrounded it, he 
never drew back nor hesitated, but went forward whh a zeal 
and confidence and energy which never forsook him, until 
under the pressure of disease he breathed out his soul. Minds 
of a cast so noble and enterprising, and actuated by a benevo- 
lence so pure and unremitted, deserve to be held in grateful 
remembrance by those who come after them; and especially 
should the memory of Bacon be cherished by the friends of 
Colonization to the latest period of time. 



128 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



CHAPTER VIIL 

STATE OF THE COLONY AFTER THE DEATH OF THE AGENTS. 

The Board at Washington had been greatly encouraged b}'' the 
communications from their Agent, after the arrival of the Eliza- 
beth; but this bright prospect was soon clouded by the melan- 
choly accounts of the death of all the agents, and of a con- 
siderable number of the best of the colonists sent out. They 
were also deeply affected with the unhappy fate of the officer 
and boat's-crew of the Cyane. But though discouraged, they 
could not see in any or all these circumstances, the total failure 
of their attempt. They concluded, that the sickness and deaths 
which had occurred, did not prove that a fatal and inevitable 
disease rendered the whole coast of Africa uninhabitable to 
strangers ; for out of the whole number of eighty-eight emi- 
grants, about seventy who had been exposed, had survived and 
recovered; and many instances of a much greater mortality 
had occurred in various places, owing to other causes than a 
pernicious peculiarity of climate. The Board seem to have 
cherished some degree of delusion in regard to the climate of 
the western coast of Africa, especially as it relates to white per- 
sons. They were disposed to attribute the sickness and mor- 
tality which had taken place, almost entirely to local causes, 
and unfavourable circumstances in the situation of the colonists, 
and the unfortunate period of the Elizabeth's arrival; it being 
near the commencement of the rainy season. The want of 
preparation and accommodation for their reception, and the 
early death of Dr. Crozer, which left them without medical aid 
or advice, were also among the unfavourable circumstances. 
That the sickness and mortahty were not owing only or chiefly 
to the peculiar unhealthiness of the Island of Sherbro, is evident 
from the fact, that Lieutenant Townsend, Mr. Bankson, and Dr. 
Crozer, together with the whole crew of the boat, took the 
fever and died, although they had not resided on the island. 
And recent facts abundantly show, that all foreigners coming 
on this coast, are liable to a fever, which is more or less dan- 
gerous, according to the constitutions and circumstances of the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 129 

patients ; it being, in general, much more fatal to white than to 
black men. 

The Board encouraged themselves by the ultimate success 
of Sierra Leone, and the other colonies in this country, although 
many disasters attended their first settlement ; and the patrons 
of the enterprise appeared generally imwilling that the coloni- 
zation of the free people of colour on the western coast of Africa, 
should be abandoned, and manifested still a willingness to 
contribute to the funds of the society. It was, therefore, 
determined by the Board to persevere in their efforts in this 
benevolent cause. Much credit is due to them for their for- 
titude and zeal ; and it is believed that their misapprehension 
of the true causes of the sickness and mortality, was overruled 
for good. 

The early death of the agents, had prevented the acquisition 
of a territory for the colony. Mr. Bacon, as we have related, 
exerted himself to the utmost to effect this object, but died be- 
fore it could be accomplished; and Kizell, who, they trusted, 
would, by his influence with the native kings, greatly facilitate 
their negotiations, fell under a suspicion of unfaithfulness, and 
even by Mr. Bacon was judged to have failed in zeal and 
promptitude, in promoting this object. 

Dr. Crozer, the agent of the Colonization Society, when near 
his end, having solemnly committed the agency with which he 
had been entrusted, to the Rev. Daniel Coker, a coloured 
preacher, of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and both 
the government agents being dead, the whole burden and 
responsibility of providing for the welfare of the colony de- 
volved on this man. In his communications to the society he 
informed them, that the sick were gradually recovering, and 
that the whole number of the emigrants who had died, did not 
exceed twenty-five. In his letter, he says, " Although we have 
met with such trials, and are here a small handful, and our pro- 
visions running low, and we in a strange and heathen land, and 
have not heard from America, and know not whether any more 
people or provisions will be sent out — and though we know 
not what is to become of us, far distant from our families and 
our friends; yet thank the Lord, my confidence is strong in the 
veracity of his promises, and in the honour of your society, 
and the government. Last Lord's day, I preached in the 
King's town, and administered the Lord's supper to our httle 



130 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

society, in presence of many natives. It was a glorious time ; 
some natives were affected. Tell my brethren to come — not 
to fear — this land is good — it only wants men to possess it." 

It seems, therefore, that the colonists themselves were not 
altogether disheartened by the disasters which they had suf- 
fered; at least, this was the fact with regard to Coker, whose 
wife and children were still in America. / 

In another part of his letter, we find, that he had even begun 
to make some efforts to instruct the natives. " I have opened," 
says he, " a little Sunday-school for native children — I teach 
out of doors — some can spell. sir, it would do your heart 
good, to see the little naked sons of Africa around me and 
Peck, and the parents looking on with wonder." " Tell the 
coloured people to come up to the help of the Lord — let 
nothing discourage the society, or the coloured people." 

Coker being thus left in sole charge of the colony, and of all 
the stores brought out in the Elizabeth, very naturally felt a 
heavy weight of responsibility resting on him, and was unwil- 
ling to take any step without the advice of some one, on whose 
judgment he could depend. He thereupon determined to go to 
Sierra Leone, and consult Governor McCarthy, what course it 
would be prudent for him to pursue. He was very kindly 
received by the Governor, and was invited to call frequently 
upon him. 

By the advice of Governor McCarthy, Coker resolved to re- 
main some time at Sierra Leone, in the hope, that an Ame- 
rican vessel would arrive; and to his great joy, the John 
Adams, arrived at Sierra Leone, bringing letters and some 
supplies for the colonists. Coker speaks in the highest terms 
of the conduct of Captain Wadsworth and his officers. One 
important service which they rendered was, repairing the little 
schooner which Mr. Bacon had purchased; but they aided the 
colonists in various other ways. 

It will be satisfactory to hear from Captain Alexander S. 
Wadsworth himself, an account of the situation of these afflicted 
emigrants, which we find in a letter addressed to Elias B. Cald- 
well, Esq., the Secretary of the American Colonization Society. 
" 1 found Mr. Coker," says he, " on whom all the affairs of the 
settlement had devolved, by the death of the agents, at Sierra 
Leone, in a state of the greatest despondency, and on the point 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 131 

of abandoning the settlement. I advised him to sustain him- 
self in his present situation, till he should receive instructions 
from the United States, as the ultimate success of the colony- 
depended so materially on such a course. I delivered to him 
the presents I had brought out in the ship, with a few necessa- 
ries and groceries from the officers of the ship, and despatched 
an officer and a boat with him to Sherbro, to render him such 
aid as he might deem necessary, and to obtain all the informa- 
tion in his power. ... He left us greatly encouraged, and in 
good spirits; and confident, with the assistance we afforded 
him, that he should be able to act so as to meet the wishes of 
the Colonization Society.'"^ 

We have also a letter from Edward Trenchard, captain of 
the Cyane, addressed to the Secretary of the Navy. From this 
letter it appears, that the spirit of insubordination among the 
emigrants had been far more alarming, than would be inferred 
from any accounts which we have yet given. Coker informed 
Captain Trenchard, that this spirit had manifested itself on 
board the Elizabeth, during the voyage, and had continued to 
increase after landing, notwithstanding the unremitted eflbrts 
of Mr. Bacon and the other agents, to quell it; and that on the 
death of Mr. Bacon, the emigrants fell into a state of total dis- 
order, openly declaring that they knew no authority, and 
would not be controlled; stealing, and pilfering whenever an 
opportunity offered, and threatening the acting agent, if he 
attempted to restrain them. The natives, observing their dis- 
union and feuds, instigated by cupidity and avarice, took 
advantage of their ignorance and disagreement, and would not 
assist, or afford them any relief. Coker apprehending violence 
from the emigrants, if he remained at Sherbro, determined to 
remove the people and stores to Sierra Leone. 

Both the captains, Wadsworth and Trenchard, finding the 
agents of the government to receive re-captured slaves, dead, 
were at a loss what they should do with any slaves which 
they might capture ; but both resolved to send them into Sierra 
Leone. It appears, however, that five slavers were sent into 
the ports of the United States, and condemned; four of these 
were taken by the Cyane, and one by the Hornet. By per- 
mission of the authorities of Sierra Leone, the emigrants 
were removed to a particular spot near Freetown. Novem- 

* See also Captain Wadswortli's letter to the Secretary of the Navy. 



132 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

ber 20th, Mr. Coker addressed a letter to the Secretary of the 
Colonization Society, but it contains no particular information. 
The ofticers of the John Adams, on leaving the coast, made up 
a handsome present which they sent to Coker, the acting agent. 
He never mentions the officers of the United States vessels, but 
with the warmest commendations. 

Early in 1821, the brig Nautilus, having on board two agents, 
the Rev. Mr. E. Bacon and Mr. Winn, appointed by the govern- 
ment of the United States to reside on the coast of Africa, and 
two agents of the Colonization Society, viz. the Rev. Joseph 
Andrus and Mr. C. Wiltberger, sailed from Norfolk for the coast 
of Africa. The same vessel also carried out a select company 
of coloured people, consisting of twenty-eight effective labour- 
ers and a number of children, to recruit the party sent out under 
the direction of the Rev. Samuel Bacon, the preceding year. 

The agents were instructed to proceed to Sierra Leone, and 
there debark the people under the temporary protection of the 
authorities of that colony; which, from the amicable disposition 
they had uniformly evinced in relation to the establishment 
contemplated by the society on that coast, it was presumed 
would be generously afforded. The temporary establishment 
at Sierra Leone seemed a matter of necessity, since the nego- 
tiations for the Bagroo territory had entirely failed. 

The Nautilus arrived at Sierra Leone on the 9th of March, 
and received readily from the acting government, the protec- 
tion which they solicited. An arrangement was concluded 
with the proprietors of an extensive and cultivated plantation, 
situated on Foura Bay, within the jurisdiction, and in the imme- 
diate vicinity of Freetown, by which they became possessed of 
every accommodation which their health and comfort required. 
Having secured a lease of this estate for an indefinite time, the 
agents had leisure to prosecute their inquiries and observations 
to different parts of the coast, with a view to the selection and 
purchase of a territory, the most advantageously situated for 
the purposes of the settlement; and to this object their atten- 
tion was immediately directed. After careful examination of 
all circumstances, they relinquished all idea of making any fur- 
ther attempt to acquire the Bagroo country, from king Sherbro. 
They were led to adopt this resolution, not only from the sup- 
posed sickliness of the country, and the difMculty of getting the 
chiefs to agree to a cession of the land on any reasonable terms ; 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 133 

but they were greatly influenced by the consideration, that this 
country lay too near to the possessions of the rapidly increasing 
colony'of Sierra Leone, with which it was important to be on the 
most amicable terms. And in pursuing this course the agents 
were happy to find, that they met the views of the members of 
the colonial government of Sierra Leone. 

It was determined, therefore, to explore the coast as far south 
as Bassa Cove ; and JVIr. Andrus, agent of the Colonization So- 
ciety, and Mr. Bacon, (brother of the person deceased,) agent 
of the government of the United States, undertook to perform 
this exploring tour: but as Mr. Bacon's journal has been pub- 
lished, and is highly interesting, an account of this coasting voy- 
age will be given in the next chapter. 

It may be proper before we proceed further, to take some 
notice of the proceedings of the Society at Washington, at their 
anniversary meeting on the 18th of January, 1S21. Judge 
Washington being prevented from attending, by illness, Hon. 
Henry Clay was called to the chair, and deUvered on the occa- 
sion, an eloquent and animating address. The whole proceed- 
ings manifest any thing rather than a spirit of despondency. 
Speeches of a highly encouraging nature were dehvered by 
the Hon. Daniel P. Cook, Hon. C. F. Mercer, and Francis 
S. Key, Esq. A resolution was passed, expressing lively 
regret for the untimely death of the Rev. Samuel Bacon and 
John P. Bankson, agents of the government; and of Samuel 
A. Crozer, agent of the Colonization Society; with a respectful 
tribute to their memory. 

A resolution was also passed, giving the thanks of the socie- 
ty to Captains Trenchard and Wadsworth, and to the officers 
and crews of their respective vessels, and also to Captain Ran- 
dall of Cape Shilling, for their kindness to the colonists and 
agents. 

The society, at this meeting, directed a memorial to be laid 
before Congress, on the subject of the suppression of the slave- 
trade, and the intimate connexion of that subject with the suc- 
cess of the colonization scheme. 

This memorial having been committed, a very favourable 
report was brought in; in which it was proposed to Congress, 
to make the oftence of being concerned in carrying on the slave 
trade, piracy. 

In the Annual Report of the society for this year, (1821,) 
12 



134 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

there is an important and interesting report of the trial of the 
schooner Plattsburg. The opinion of Judge Van Ness is given 
in full, and is eloquent, and contains sound and discriminating 
views. 

This vessel sailed from Baltimore in December, 1819. In 
the following April, she was found on the coast of Africa, offi- 
cered and manned by Americans, except a Spaniard by the 
name of Gonzales, who was nominally the captain of the ves- 
sel. These circumstances, in the opinion of the Judge, justified 
the commander of the Cyane in seizing her, and sending her in 
for adjudication ; and after a full examination of the case, it 
appeared very clearly, that this vessel had been fitted out in 
Baltimore, for the slave-trade; but that to cover the transaction 
this Spaniard had been put on board as the nominal commander 
of the vessel; and a fraudulent transfer of the cargo to a man 
who went out as supercargo had been made. 

After a fair and open trial, the schooner was condemned un- 
der the law of the United States prohibiting the slave-trade; 
and upon the facts, considered by the Judge sufficiently estab- 
lished by the evidence, that she was at the time of seizure, 
American property, and that the voyage originated in a port of 
the United States. 



CHAPTER IX. 

THE COLONY UNDER MESSRS. E. BACON AND ANDRUS- 

Although Mr. Bacon will repeat some things contained in the 
preceding chapters, yet we believe that our readers will be 
gratified with the following details extracted from his journal, 
as it is the testimony of an intelligent eye-witness. 

« We left Norfolk on the 21st of January, 1821, and on the 
23d sailed from Hampton Roads. For about thirty days we 
encountered head winds and strong gales, and made slow pro- 
gress. During this time I was very sea-sick, as were also Mrs. 
Bacon, and the Rev. Mr. Andrus. The other agents were less 
affected; some of the colonists suffered from the same malady. 
Our captain was remarkably kind and attentive to those who 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 135 

were sick, and particularly to Mrs. Bacon and myself, when 
we were unable to wait upon ourselves, for which kindness 1 
shall always feel myself under very many obligations to him; 
and I think I speak the sentiments of my colleagues. Nothing 
uncommon occurred during our voyage, except that we expe- 
rienced a very severe gale of wind, accompanied with a snow 
storm, which our captain told us was more violent than any he 
had known during the preceding twenty years. It was indeed 
a time to try our faith. 

"At the commencement of the voyage, we established 
morning and evening prayers in the cabin, as well as in the 
steerage, where the coloured people were ; in these we enjoyed 
the consolations of the religion we profess. 

"We had all recovered from sea-sickness, and having arrived 
within the tropics, where the weather was fine and the wind 
favourable, our passage was more agreeable. Nothing un- 
common occurred during the remainder of our voyage. But a 
continuation of the mercies of our heavenly Father was daily 
bestowed on us. On the morning of the Sth of March, we had 
a distant view of the mountains of Sierra Leone, which was 
really animating to us after crossing the Atlantic. We felt our- 
selves approaching towards that much injured country, where 
we expected to labour, and to suffer many and great afflictions. 
We were cheered with the hope, that through the assistance of 
Divine grace, we should be, in a greater or less degree, useful 
among the degraded children of Africa. The wind was fair, 
but rather light, as is not uncommon in the dry season. We 
soon hove in sight of Cape Sierra Leone, when we discovered, 
for the first time, several native canoes approaching toward us. 
These excited our curiosity. They were manned by the native 
Kroomen, in a state of nudity, or nearly so. When I speak of 
naked people, it may be always understood that they wear a 
cloth about their loins, and that the men generally wear hats. 
These hats are manufactured out of a kind of grass. The 
chiefs and head-men often wear common English hats. 

"We soon discovered a fine English barge approaching us, 
rowed by natives. In this were the harbour master, George 
Macaulay, and S. Easton, Esqs., (of the house of the honoura- 
ble K. Macaulay,) who very politely gave us much interesting 
information relative to our American blacks at Sherbro. As 
we approached near the harbour, they gave the American 



136 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

agents a friendly invitation to go on shore in the barge, and 
take lodgings at their house. As the principal agent concluded 
to remain on board, Mrs. Bacon and myself thought proper 
not to slight their politeness, our accommodations in the brig 
being somewhat circumscribed, and the transition from Nor- 
folk, where the cold was excessive, to Sierra Leone, where the 
degrees of heat were at noon day from 85 to S7i in the shade, 
making a visit to land desirable. Moreover the services of all 
the agents were not required to attend to the wants of the 
people. We accordingly went on shore, where we were 
politely and hospitably entertained for several days. 

" The agents of the United States, together with those of the 
society, soon had an interview with the Rev. Daniel Coker, by 
whom we learnt the condition of the American settlers at 
Sherbro. He informed us that the mortality, although severely 
felt in the loss of our valuable agents, and Mr. Townsend, 
commandant of the United States schooner Augusta, together 
with six of his men, and a boy, was not so great as at first 
reported. The whole number of blacks who died, did not 
exceed twenty-three, out of the eighty-eight sent out in the 
ship Elizabeth, Several of those deaths were not caused by 
the prevailing fever. The actual number of blacks who died 
with fever, did not exceed eighteen or nineteen, all of whom 
died at Kizell's Place. Although very many of the settlers 
were extremely ill when they left Kizzell's Place, and removed 
to Yonie, a more healthy part of Sherbro island, and the time 
of their removal was the month of August, in the midst of the 
rainy season, still no deaths by fever occurred at Yonie; but on 
the contrary, a general recovery took place, notwithstanding 
there was no medical aid. The sickness at Kizell's Place 
was evidently in a great degree owing to local causes; the 
water alone is said to be sufficiently bad to create malignant 
disorders, though Kizell was base enough to assert that it con- 
tained peculiar qualities highly conducive to health. That, 
and other false assertions, induced the former agents to receive 
his offer of friendship ; pretending, as he did, to unbounded 
influence among the native chiefs; an ardent desire to further 
the benevolent objects of our government and the society; to 
benefit America; to meliorate the condition of the African 
race, and propagate the glorious gospel of God in a heathen 
land. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 137 

" After making other necessary inquiries of Mr. Coker, and 
of those gentlemen in Sierra Leone, with whom we were most 
conversant ; also of some of the American blacks who went 
out with Paul CufFee, and of Nathaniel Peck, who accompa- 
nied the first expedition; we were fully satisfied that Mr. 
Coker had managed the business of the expedition, after the 
decease of the former agents, in as judicious a manner as the 
circumstances of the case would admit. 

"We lost no time after our arrival, in communicating with 
the acting governor, his honour John Grant, upon the subject 
of our mission. The American agents received a polite invi- 
tation to breakfast with him at the Government House on 
Saturday morning, the 10th of March. We there met his excel- 
lency, together with his honourable council, after partaking of 
a sumptuous breakfast of great variety, served up in elegant 
style. 

"The several benevolent objects of our government, and 
those of the society were fully explained, and an open and 
candid exposition of our instructions made after this friendly 
interview. His excellency gave us a very polite invitation to 
dine at the Government House, on Tuesday the 13th of March; 
which we did accordingly, and partook of an elegant dinner, 
served up in much splendour. There were at table a number 
of the principal gentlemen, officers of the colonial government, 
Spanish commissioners, English missionaries, and several ladies. 

" The very friendly disposition which the colonial authorities 
manifested towards the objects of our mission, may be seen by 
a reference to the Sierra Leone Gazette. 

"A meeting of all the agents, together with Mr. Coker, took 
place, when it was unanimously agreed to relinquish the idea 
of making any further attempt to negotiate for lands in the 
Sherbro country; and that two of the agents should cause the 
United States schooner Augusta, which was lying at anchor in 
the harbour at Sierra Leone, to undergo some shght repairs for 
the purpose of exploring the coast in search of a suitable site 
for an American settlement ; moreover, it was resolved that no 
time should be lost, as we were taught by our instructions to 
regard the acquisition of lands for a settlement, as a matter of 
primary importance. 

" Having a discretion on this subject, it was determined after 
advising with the EngUsh missionaries and agents at Sierra 
12* 



138 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Leone, that the Rev. Mr. Andrus and myself should be deputed 
to the service of exploring the coast, and entering into negotia- 
tions with the native chiefs. At the same time it was arranged 
that Messrs. Winn and Wiltberger should disembark the people 
and goods from the Nautilus, after a suitable place for their 
temporary location should be determined upon, by and with 
the consent of the colonial authorities, who had politely prof- 
fered to provide such place, as soon as it could be selected. It 
was also agreed that Messrs. Winn and Wiltberger, should 
attend to the business at Sherbro — supply the wants of the 
people there, or remove them as should be found most expe- 
dient ; so that as nearly as possible an equal partition of duties 
was made. 

''A suitable place was found about two weeks after Mr. 
Andrus and myself had sailed on our hazardous excursion. 
We had been taught to expect the arrival of the Alligator, 
which was to accompany us. But it was not deemed advisable 
to wait, but to proceed immediately to execute that part of our 
instructions, which directed us to explore the coast; in this 
determination we were influenced by the following reasons. 

" 1. The assistance of all the agents was not necessary to 
administer to the wants of the people, circumstanced as they 
must be during their continuance at Sierra Leone ; and some 
of us, unless employed in obtaining the lands, must have 
remained almost or quite unoccupied. 

" 2. The period of the arrival of the Alligator on the coast, 
was entirely uncertain. But little more than six weeks re- 
mained before the rains. The business of exploring, therefore, 
must be commenced immediately, or not completed until the 
rainy season; and as the event showed, had we waited for the 
arrival of the Alligator, it could not have been begun before the 
commencement of the rains. 

'•' 3, But our principal reason for embarking in the business 
immediately, was the certainty that the presence of an armed 
force would hinder rather than assist our negotiations with the 
natives. In this opinion we were confirmed by the unanimous 
judgment of all our English friends consulted on the subject. 
It will be seen, by a reference to dates, that we had concluded 
our contract for the lands, and returned to Sierra Leone, two 
weeks or more before the arrival of the Alligator." 

'^ Wednesday evoiing, the 21st of March. — Having been 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATIOX. 139 

much engaged in making preparations, I had not time to write 
to my friends; and expecting not to return until after the sail- 
ing of the brig Nautihis, (although the disembarkation had not 
yet commenced,) a letter was written approving of the judi- 
cious management of the Rev. Daniel Coker, in conducting the 
affairs of the first expedition after the decease of the former 
agents, and recommending him to the friendly notice of the 
Board of Managers of the American Society for colonizing the 
free people of colour. This letter was signed by J. B. Winn, 
J. R. Andrus, C. Wiltberger, jr. and E. Bacon, agents. 

" Thursday morning, the 22d of March. — The schooner is 
expected to be ready to-day: we are preparing for our depar- 
ture, and hope to sail this evening. 

" At 5 o'clock, P. M. all hands are on board, some of the 
sailors intoxicated; the captain appears to make unnecessary 
delays. At length we set sail. After doubling the cape, we 
stood out to sea, far enough to clear all the head lands and 
islands of the coast; and then proceeding coastwise, we made 
Cape Mount, about two hundred and fifty miles distant from 
Sierra Leone, on the 27th. This part of the coast we had pre- 
viously learned to be in the occupancy of King Peter, one of 
the most powerful and warlike chiefs of West Africa, and more 
deeply engaged in the slave-trade than any of his neighbours. 
The known hostility of his views to the objects of the Ameri- 
can government and society, dissuaded us from incurring any 
loss of time or expense in procuring an interview with him. 
\Ve accordingly proceeded onward to the mouth of the Mesu- 
rado river, about fifty miles south of Cape Mount, where we 
came to anchor the next day, before two small islands, owned 
by John Mills, a yellow man, having an English education, 
and Baha, a black, and native African. Both of these men are 
slave dealers, and it is supposed that their islands are mere slave 
markets. ^Every appearance went to justify this suspicion. 
The neighbourhood of Cape Mesurado having been indicated as 
a part of the coast favourable to our purpose, we were induced 
to make the most particular inquiry and observations in our 
power, relative to the advantages and disadvantages that would 
attend a settlement here. 

" The appearance of this part of the left bank of the Mesu- 
rado river, which terminates in the cape of the same name, is 
sufficiently elevated, and inviting. The natural growth is lux- 



^( 



140 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



iiriant and abundant; many of the trees attain to a large size, 
and present every indication of a strong and fertile soil. 

" The head-man is a dependent of King Peter, and has the 
same name. We attempted to obtain a palaver with him, and 
for this purpose went on shore with a present. He was not 
ignorant of the object of our visit, and sent by a messenger de- 
clining an interview, and refusing to receive our present, though 
we had reason to believe that if we had been mere mission- 
aries, he would have received us readily.* While we were at 
anchor, a schooner under French colours appeared, lying off, 
and apparently waiting for an opportunity to come in and re- 
ceive a cargo of slaves. We saw a great number of young 
Africans, who appeared as if intended for that vessel. 

"On the evening of the 29th, we got under way, and follow- 
ing the direction of the coast, which here stretches south-easter- 
ly, we had the prospect of a delightful country the whole dis- 
tance to St. John's river. The coast presents a sandy beach; 
in the whole of this extent, the country is gently elevated from 
the coast, and has a surface agreeably diversified with mode- 
rate irjequalities. Most of the land visible from the sea, either 
has been, or now is, in a state of cultivation. The soil is pro- 
lific in the most substantial articles of food produced in tropical 
countries. The neglected parts of the land are covered with a 
thick growth of brush wood. The mountains in the interior 
are here about twenty or thirty miles from the sea, stretching 
in the direction of the coast, and come more distinctly into 
view, than at the northward of the Cape. Their elevation 
must be considerable. On the evening of the 31st we were be- 
calmed, and obliged to anchor opposite the mouth of the St. 
John's river, at the distance of between two and three leagues. 
This river is nearly a league over at the mouth. About six 
leagues from the sea, it is one mile wide, and has in no part of 
the main channel, less than nine feet water. Salt water ex- 
tends but six or eight miles from the sea; there is a rapid at 
six leagues' distance from the mouth of the river, which is how- 
ever passable with canoes. Above, the batteau navigation ex- 
tends to a great distance in the interior. Five miles to the 
eastward of the mouth of St. John's, and discharging its waters 
into the same bay, is the Grand Bassa river, small in com- 

* This cape has since been negotiated for, together with a large tract of fertile 
country, and the American colony are settled on it. 



yt 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 141 



parison with the St. John's, and very shoal at the bar — but of 
considerable length and navigable for light batteau a number 
of leagues. 

" On the 1st of April, we brought the schooner to anchor off 
the mouth of the latter river, at the distance of three-fourths of 
a mile. We were soon surrounded with canoes, which brought 
on board a large number of natives. By one of them we 
despatched a small present to the king. This prince's name is 
Jack Ben, lately advanced to the supreme power, from the 
rank of principal head-man, in consequence of the death of 
King John, which occurred about four months before our visit. 

" Monday mornings Jipril 2d, Grand Bassa. — We were 
visited by ten or fifteen native canoes, bringing from two to 
five men each, who came to trade; their articles were fowls, 
fish, oysters, eggs, palm oil and palm wine, cassada, yams, 
plantains, bananas, limes and pine apples, for which they 
wanted in return tobacco, pipes, beads, &c. 

"Fowls are sold for one leaf of tobacco or one pipe each; 
oysters are very large and fine; half a pound of tobacco will 
buy one hundred; they are larger than the Bhie Point oysters. 

" Mr. Andrus and myself went on shore in our boat, below 
the mouth of Grand Bassa, to take a view of the point of land 
which projects out into the sea. A fort, erected on this point, 
would completely command the whole harbour. After visiting 
the point, it was necessary to cross the Grand Bassa a short 
distance above its mouth, as the surf was turbulent below the 
bar. Our conductor was a Krooman, by the name of Bottle 
Beer. When we came to the left bank of the river, we saw 
no canoe or other means of crossing over as we thought; but 
Bottle Beer proposed to carry us over, and placed himself in a 
suitable position, and told one of us to sit upon his shoulders, 
when brother Andrus seated himself with one leg over each 
shoulder; then Bottle Beer walked deliberately through the 
river, carrying his burden safe to the other bank, and returned 
back and proposed to take me. I told him I was so fat and 
heavy that he would let me fall into the water; he put his 
hands upon his arms and legs, and said, " Me strong, me carry 
you, Daddy." At length 1 seated myself likewise upon Bottle 
Beer, and though he was not as heavy a person as myself, he 
carried me safe over without wetting me; it was necessary, 
however, that I should hold my feet up, as the water was 



142 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

about half a fathom deep. After this we walked about three 
hundred yards, to Bottle Beer's town, a little cluster of cottages 
inhabited by Kroomen, of which Bottle Beer is head-man; 
several of these people can talk broken English; the king 
placed Bottle Beer at this town as a factor or a harbour mas- 
ter, as it is a place for vessels to water. The population is 
perhaps from sixty to one hundred; we were conducted to the 
palaver house, where the people soon gathered together, and 
shook hands with us. After remaining a short time, we were 
conducted to another town (so called) where the people were 
boiling sea-water for salt, as they do at all the towns near the 
beach; this is called Salt Town; through this we passed to 
Jumbo Town, which is about one mile from Bottle Beer's town, 
and much larger. 

" In Jumbo Town there are from thirty to forty houses, and 
several hundred people. There is also a large palaver house, 
to which we were conducted. There we were accosted by 
Jumbo, the head-man, and the natives, and shook hands with 
them. The land is prolific beyond description. Indian corn 
grows luxuriantly and is in the ear. Indeed, the country is 
beautifully variegated, and the water is good and plenty. 

" About one o'clock, P. M. we returned back to our boat, 
which was at Bottle Beer's town. After the boat was in readi- 
ness, one of the Kroomen took me in his arms and carried me 
above the surf to the boat, and likewise Mr. Andrus, so that 
we were not wet; and all this kindness without being solicited. 
Indeed, they are very kind and hospitable; they gave us water 
to drink, and palm wine, and made us welcome to such as they 
had. As is customary, they begged for tobacco, of which we 
gave a small quantity to the head-men, who always distribute 
among the people. 

" After returning on board the schooner, we dined on fish 
and oysters sumptuously. We then went in our boat over the 
bar, into the mouth of the St. John's river, about four miles 
distance from the schooner, when we sounded on the bar, and 
found not less than nine feet water at ebb-tide. The river is 
about three miles wide at the bar: there is plenty of water and 
good anchorage: vessels of two or three hundred tons burden, 
may lie perfectly safe. It being nearly dark, and the tide be- 
ginning to make, which was against our returning in the boat, 
over the bar, it was thought most prudent for Mr. Andrus and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 143 

myself to go on shore and return by land to Jumbo Town, which 
we did accordingly. There was no path on the shore but the 
sand beach, which was fatiguing, as the sand was so loose that 
a great part of the way our shoes would sink two or three 
inches every step. Moreover, being exposed to the night air, 
is thought in Africa to be dangerous to foreigners; however, 
we arrived at Jumbo Town about eight o'clock, and waited for 
our boat, which soon came. The natives again carried us 
through the surf, and we returned on board much fatigued, 
having been in a profuse perspiration and exposed to night air, 
until nine o'clock. I was very weary. After having taken 
some refreshments, we had prayers and retired to rest. Heard 
nothing from the king, the Krooman not having returned. 

" Tuesday, Jipril 3d. — This morning brother Andrus was 
not in very good health, and did not go on shore, but took 
medicine. We were again visited by natives, with a great 
variety of fruit, vegetables, fowls, fish, &c. &c. 

" We this day sent another message to the king. At ten 
o'clock I went on shore, in company with Tamba and Davis, 
and walked about one mile into the country, where I found 
the land remarkably good. We passed through four or five 
towns, as they called them; the houses as in other towns ap- 
pear at a distant view more like the same number of stacks of 
straw or hay, as they are covered with a kind of grass. Davis 
and Tamba improve every opportunity to talk with their 
country people upon the subject of our mission. Davis saw 
some of the head-men to-day, who appear to be suspicious that 
we had some unfriendly object in view; but as he can speak 
their language fluently, he is endeavouring to remove their 
doubts. 

" Returned on board with not only my locks but my flannels 
drenched with perspiration ; even while I am writing, if my 
handkerchief were not in my hand to wipe it from my face, I 
should be compelled to discontinue. No prospect as yet of 
seeing the king. 

" This evening brother Andrus's health is better. We com- 
mended ourselves and the cause in which we are engaged to 
God, who alone can accomplish all things, according to his 
purpose, and retired to rest. 

" Wednesday morning, April Ath. — At six o'clock, accord- 
ing to our arrangements made yesterday, we started in our 



144 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

boat, with four boatmen and our interpreters, making eight of 
us ; and five natives, two of which were head-men, in two of 
their canoes. We ascended the river St. John's to the first 
island. The banks of the river are rather low, but suitable for 
cultivation. This island was formerly occupied by a slave 
factor; but since the English and American cruisers have 
annoyed them, the traders have abandoned this and all the 
other islands. In this river their gardens are to be seen; 
in them is a variety of fruit. We breakfasted here upon some 
smoked beef and bread, which we brought from the vessel. 
Thence we proceeded on to another island, to which Davis 
said he was brought, and on which he was sold to an Ameri- 
can slave factor. 

" It was with great difficulty that we prevailed on the na- 
tives and our boat's crew to proceed any further, because they 
said, " White man never live above that place." It appeared 
that they doubted the efficacy of their gregres, which they 
never fail to wear when exposed to danger. We passed two 
other islands, formerly occupied by the same kind of despera- 
does. We still proceeded onwards until we came to rapids, 
which are from fifteen to twenty miles from its mouth. The 
land as we ascend the river becomes more elevated, with a fine 
growth of timber, admirably situated for settlements. We saw 
several small towns and farms, where rice and vegetables are 
cultivated. Davis read the twentieth chapter of Exodus, and 
spoke to the people upon the state of their souls. In one of 
those towns, people were very attentive; their reply to him 
after he had ceased speaking, was, " Very well, we hear you, 
all very good what you say, ive think 'bout it, ive no sabby 
ivhile man fash, we sabby gregreJ" 

" We saw very fine goats, and sheep, and poultry. All the 
people wear gregres or charms; some of these are brass rings, 
which they wear around their ancles and wrists — one is a 
feather tied Avith a string around their neck — and what they 
consider more valuable, is the horn of a goat or a sheep, which 
the Dibbleman (as they say) prepares by filling it with a kind 
of glutinous substance, intermixed with pulverized charcoal, or 
black sand; some wear a little ball of clay tied up in a piece of 
white muslin. 

" At three o'clock we put our company in motion on our re- 
turn. At seven o'clock, the boat arrived at the mouth of the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 145 

river, and before crossing the bar, brother Andrus, myself, 
Tan:iba and Davis, went on shore, where we had a most fa- 
tigning walk down the beach to Jumbo Town; our boat not 
being able to go over the bar before daylight, as the tide did 
not favour; therefore we had no boat in which we dare ven- 
ture, as the native canoes were small and unsafe for us. 
Having been twelve hours exposed to the scorching rays of 
the sun, and having walked four miles in the damp of the 
evening, with our clothes drenched in perspiration, and being 
obliged to lie down supperless, upon a floor composed of bam- 
boo sticks, without any covering but our wet garments— having 
no door to our cottage, and several hundred natives within 
twenty yards, drumming and dancing, until one or two o'clock 
in the morning.— Indeed these were times that the secret ejacu- 
lations of the heart ascended up to the throne of the Heavenly 
Grace, for grace to help in that hour of need. Nor was the 
ear of Jehovah heavy, that it could not hear; nor his almighty 
arm shortened, that it could not save ; for we found ready help 
through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthening us. 

" Thursday viorning, Jlpril 5th. — We arose and felt some- 
what the worse for our hard lodging, after our extreme expo- 
sure in that climate, in which, it is said, foreigners are subject 
to fevers and agues. Our boat came to the beach for us, and 
we went on board the schooner. Having heard nothing from 
the king, we concluded to send Davis with one of the head- 
men, to seek his majesty. Davis was despatched with a pre- 
sent. We this day learned from a head-man, that we could 
have land, but that we must go to the king's town to-morrow. 

"We admired the friendly disposition of the inhabitants, but 
discovered their fears that we were connected with some ship 
of war. 

" Friday morning, April 6ih.—We went on shore, and 
went to the king's town, but could not see him; it was said 
that he was not at home. The distance is from two and a half 
to three miles; the land is most excellent, elevated and dry; we 
saw very fine rice fields: this town was recently built, and the 
houses are much better than any I have hitherto seen in the 
Bassa country. 

" We returned back to the schooner, without seeing Davis, 
and sent Tamba to call him, but he remained. We are full of 
doubts and fears about obtaining a palaver with the king. 
13 



146 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

" Saturday, April 1th. — This day Tamba and Davis return- 
ed; it appears they have been labouring to convince the head- 
men, that we have not come with any hostile intention. 

^^ Sunday, April Sth. — Brothers Andrus and Davis went to 
old King John's town, for the purpose of holding a meeting. 
Returned in the evening, and said that they had seen King 
Ben, and that he would meet us in Jumbo Town, in palaver, 
the next morning. 

" They saw the body of King John, who had been dead four 
moons, yet not buried; he was laid in state in a palaver-house, 
dressed in a fine robe, with a pair of new English boots on 
the feet: a brisk fire is kept burning in the room. His grave 
is dug, which is eight feet square, for the purpose of admitting 
the body and the form upon which it lies, together with bul- 
locks, goats, sheep, tobacco and pipes, as sacrifices ! Lord, 
when shall these superstitions cease ! 

" Monday, April Sth. — This morning the sea very rough. 
At 11 o'clock we went on shore with a present to the king, 
as it is impossible to get a palaver with the authorities of the 
country, without a respectable present ' to pay service' to the 
king, his princes, and head-men. We met his majesty. King 
Jack Ben, of Grand Bassa, together with several of his head- 
men in Jumbo Town, in the palaver-house, with a large con- 
course of people. After shaking hands with them, we laid 
down our presents, which consisted of one gun, some powder, 
tobacco, pipes, beads, &c. His majesty said in broken English, 
' me tanke you,' and caused the articles to be removed, and 
placed under the care of a sentinel, so that his people might 
not get them before he had divided them equally, as is their 
custom. This division takes place, that all may ' taste of the 
good things,' and a contract is made: all who have partaken of 
the present, are pledged to fulfil on their part. 

" The king asked us what we wanted, although he could not 
have been ignorant of our wishes. We stated our object to be, 
' to get land for the black people in America, to come and sit 
down upon [to occupy]. We told him that the people were 
very many, and required much territory; that a few white men 
only would come along, to assist and take care of them; that 
we should make a town where ships would come and trade 
with cloth, and guns, and beads, and knives, and tobacco, and 
pipes; and take in return their ivory, and palm oil, and rice. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 147 

and every other thing growing in the fields; that they would not 
then need to sell any more people, but might learn to cultivate 
the ground, and make other things to sell for whatever they 
wanted.' 

" We, at last, succeeded in making a favourable impression 
on their minds; and convincing them that we had no unfriend- 
ly motive in visiting Bassa. The palaver was adjourned until 
the next day. It indeed requires much patience to deal with 
these children of the forest. We returned on board weary and 
faint: after partaking of some refreshment, and having im- 
plored the divine blessing of Him who has promised to give 
to his Son the heathen for his inheritance, and the uttermost 
parts of the earth for his possession, we retired to rest. 

" Tuesday, Jlpril lOth. — This day is expected to be a day of 
importance, as the palaver will be much larger, and a certain 
condition will be discussed, which they have urged from the 
beginning; therefore, we look earnestly for Divine assistance. 
A small present will be necessary, as there will be more head- 
men than at any former palaver. At 10 o'clock we were con- 
vened. The present was placed before the king, and the usual 
ceremonies were performed. The king rose up and spoke to 
the case in the Bassa language, with great energy; his naked 
arm presented to view from within his robes, which were made 
of the country manufactured cloth, something in the form of 
clerical robes. After him, a Krooman by the name of Brown, 
rose and spoke with much spirit; his speech was interpreted 
by Tamba; the substance of it was, that we were emissaries 
from some slave-ship in the neighbourhood, and that we were 
not friends to them; on which the king and his council with- 
drew to the shade of a large silk cotton tree, in conclave, for 
the space of twenty or thirty minutes. They then returned 
and proceeded in discussing the condition, strenuously urged 
from the beginning by the king, as the basis on which alone he 
could accede to our wishes in relation to the lands. We had 
stated, that we came not with any hostile intentions, and that 
the character of the settlement was to be unwarlike and agri- 
cultural. They demanded of us a positive stipulation, to make 
book, as they term it, that the settlers and agents should act in 
consistency with this character, and in no way assist the armed 
ships sent to the coast to suppress the slave trade, by commu- 
nicating to them any information that might prove injurious to 



148 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the Bassa people. We represented to them the advantages 
which would attend their relinquishing the trade altogether; 
stating that in a very short time it must cease, as so many ships 
of war would be sent to the coast, as to catch every slave ves- 
sel, and put an end to the exportation of the people; still they 
insisted on the condition; and at the breaking up of the pala- 
ver, told us we should have the lands, provided we agreed to 
insert the condition in the contract [book]. They directed us 
to explore the country, and, as the king said, 'lookem straight,' 
laying down his palaver brush in a straight position, and fix upon 
the tract best adapted to our purpose, at the same time indica- 
ting the quarter where those lands lay, which they could best 
afford to spare. We retiu-ned on board the schooner somewhat 
encouraged, but still we felt dissatisfied with the condition 
upon which they insisted; however, considering that it could 
have no practical operation, inasmuch as if, while in our infant 
state, we were to show a disposition to use any other means 
than persuasion in urging them to abandon the traffic in slaves, 
we should incur their displeasure, and cause the destruction of 
the whole of our expectations of future success, we were toler- 
ably content. 

" Wednesday, April Wth. — This day went on shore, when 
it began to rain. There has been a little rain every day for six 
or seven days past. It appears that the rains are setting in. 
The king sent a servant to us, with a message, informing us 
that he would be ready to receive us after the rains had ceased. 
We arrived at the king's town. We had a short palaver, after 
ascertaining that we could not obtain land upon any better 
terms. It is however probable, that at no distant period the 
natives may be be induced to abandon the slave trade altoge- 
ther, without any coercive measures being used, as they will 
see other sources of trade present themselves to view. 

" The king directed some of his head-men to accompany us, 
to look at the country. We walked in various directions, and 
returned to the schooner, having previously explored the St. 
John's river as far as the rapids, and viewed the country in 
various directions. We fully determined upon the territory 
which would be suitable for our purpose. We are more and 
more pleased with the appearance of the country and its inha- 
bitants. The king took one of his boys by the hand, who was 
about thirteen or fourteen years of age, and gave him to us to 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 149 

learn Book. We took him on board, and put a pair of domes- 
tic pantaloons upon him, which pleased him very much. 

" Thursday, ^^pril I2th. — This morning the king sent two 
of his head-men on board to go with us and fix upon a place to 
build our town. We sent back a message that we had fixed 
upon the place, and that we were ready to meet him in palaver, 
at any time he should appoint, at Jumbo Town. He did not 
send us his answer until evening, when two of his head-men 
arrived with a present from his sable majesty, which consisted 
of a fine fat goat. His answer was that he would meet us at 
eight o'clock the next morning at Jumbo Town, in grand pala- 
ver. We are very anxious to know the final result. 

^^ Friday, April \2th. — We met in palaver; there were more 
head-men and princes, as well as people, than at any time pre- 
vious. Our present, of course, was much more valuable than 
before. We thanked the king for his present, and he returned 
the same civility for our presents. These people being ignorant 
of extent of territory, or of distances by measurement, we 
directed our interpreters to tell them that we wanted a large 
tract of land, and they described it thus : — Beginning at a cer- 
tain tree on the beach near Jumbo Town, running due east by 
compass to the top of Saddle Mountain, or two or three days' 
walk, either of which would be a distance of from forty to 
sixty miles; from thence northwardly to St. John's river, a dis- 
tance of perhaps from fifty to seventy miles ; from thence down 
the St. John's river to its mouth ; from thence along the sand 
beach to the aforesaid tree near Jumbo Town, inclusive; sup- 
posed to be thirty or forty miles square of territory. To our 
having this tract, they readily agreed, and directed their names 
to be set to the instrument, the conditions before mentioned be- 
ing included. They all took hold of the pen and made their 
marks; they then cried aloud, " Palaver set ! Palaver set!" 

"The agent of the Colonization Society, engaged in behalf 
of said society, to give certain stipulated articles annually, 
which will not cost more than three hundred dollars. Pledges 
of mutual friendship were interchanged, whereby each party 
agreed to cultivate peace and harmony, and not to make war 
on, or trouble each other. 

" Thus we at last succeeded in convincing them that we were 
their friends. This, we were assured, we could not have done, 
had it not been for the presence of Davii; and the entire ab- 
13* 



150 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

sence of any display of military or naval force. We regard it 
as a most favourable providence that the Alligator did not 
bring, or accompany us to the Bassa, and that no naval officer 
was present at the negotiations. 

" The king was much pleased at seeing his son with trowsers 
on; the people said, "He gentleman all one white man:" the 
king proposed to give us an elder son in lieu of the other, as he 
said if the younger went away, his " Mama make palaver on 
me." We accepted his proposition, took the elder on board? 
put a suit of clothes on him, and gave him the name of Bush- 
rod Washington. His father was very much delighted to see 
him clothed. The king, princes, head-men, and people, went 
with us to the tree on the beach near Jumbo Town, one of the 
aforesaid boundaries, and a boy climbed up it, and cut off some 
of its branches, leaving one branch, which ascended consider- 
ably higher than the rest : to this he tied about six yards of an 
American pendant, which the people consider a white man's 
gregre or fetish, and according to their prejudice, regard as 
sacred. Near this spot it was thought proper to make our set- 
tlement. The king's son will go with us to Sierra Leone, 
where he will be put to school and taught to speak English. 
The king and people are all anxious that we should return im- 
mediately, even before the rains fully set in ; but we do not 
give them any encouragement of our speedy return. 

" These people are very kind, but are in a dreadful state of 
heathenish darkness; they worship the "Dibbly man," [the 
devil,] and dedicate daily a part of their food to him. They 
profess to believe that there is a good and merciful Deity, who 
can and will do them good, and not evil : but that the devil is 
all powerful, and that it is necessary to appease his wrath. 
Every town has its peculiar devil. 

" The man who acts the part of devil is dressed up in a gar- 
ment of dried grass or rushes which covers him, and reaches 
to the ground; his arms and feet are concealed; a white coun- 
try-cloth covers his shoulders; round his head, and tied under 
his chin, are two or three cotton handkerchiefs; the face is 
frightful; the mouth and nose are black; two large teeth pro- 
ject far beyond the lips; a row of coarse shells is bound round 
above the eyes; on the head is a red cap, which reaches four 
or five feet in height, and is surmounted with a plume of fea- 
thers. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 151 

" Sometimes this figure would move about in a stately style ; 
and at others it would turn into all sorts of postures, and strike 
the plume of feathers on the ground, uttering a noise like that 
occasioned by blowing through a pipe, the mouth of which is 
immersed in water. 

" Every inducement was offered to the king to obtain posses- 
sion of the habiliments of this terrific figure, that we might 
carry them out of the country; but we could not prevail. The 
king said that the devil belonged to the people, and that they 
would kill him if he let it go. We trust that the hght of the 
gospel will, ere long, expose to shame these delusions of cun- 
ning and superstition, 

" The people, like all other natives, are in a state of nudity, 
except that they wear about one and a half yards of narrow 
cloth about their loins; the men often wear hats, while the 
children are not burdened with any kind of clothes, but fre- 
quently, like the adults, wear many beads. Leopard's teeth 
are thought to be very valuable ornaments. 

" The king, when in general palaver, was clad in his robes, 
which covered his whole body ; he had on, also, an elegant cap ; 
at other times he wore a drab-coloured broad-cloth great coat, 
with a number of capes. His head-men were partially clad, 
some with blue cloth roundabouts, with military or naval but- 
tons. They wore no shirts. INIany of them had belts of beads, 
which contained one or more pounds each. 

" There are many Kroomen in the towns along the coast. 
They are employed as agents or factors for the authorities of 
the country, who monopolize all the trade. These agents have 
each a number of certificates from masters of vessels who have 
employed them. They wished us to give them 'books,' like- 
wise, but we had no occasion to employ them as factors. Bot- 
tle Beer required us to pay for the water with which our vessel 
had been furnished. With this demand we did not comply, as 
we had not come ' for trade.' We informed the king of the 
demand, and he revoked it. The people all live in villages or 
clusters of cottages, in each of which is a head-man, who has a 
plurality of wives. If a native have but one wife, he is indeed 
very poor. The head-man is a slave-holder; he owns all the 
people in his town. The inhabitants of each town cultivate in 
common. The men seldom do any labour, except fish a little, 
and hunt. The females and small boys cultivate the land. 



152 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

The men trade and direct those who are under them. I saw a 
fine looking female with iron fetters on her feet, which fetters, 
no doubt, were brought from a slave vessel, as we observed 
one under French colours, lying in the harbour at the same 
time. I made inquiry concerning the cause of her confinement, 
and was told that she was taken in adultery. It is said by the 
natives that ' wife palaver, very bad palaver.' It is punished 
with death, red water, or slavery, and most usually the latter. 
These people are indeed in gross darkness, depending upon 
their gregres and devil worship. A town is not complete which 
has not a Palaver House and Devil House. The latter has a 
small post standing near it, six or eight feet high, with a strip of 
white muslin about three-fourths of a yard in length, and two 
or three inches wide, tied round the top. There they daily offer 
sacrifice. 

" The Bassa country is situated between five and six degrees 
north latitude, and between ten and eleven west longitude, in 
the centre of the Grain Coast, which is about an equal distance 
from Sierra Leone and Cape Coast, where the English have 
commenced a settlement. Swine, herds of neat cattle, sheep, 
and goats are bred here. 

" At evening we took an affectionate leave of the king and 
some of the head-men ; the old king appeared to be much 
affected, and said, ' You have my son, you take him Sierra 
Leone learn book, when rain done you come Grand Bassa, 
then King Jack Ben give you plenty boys learn book.' The 
people are all apparently very anxious to have us return-, they 
seem to have great confidence in us. 

" Grand Bassa, Saturday mornins:, Jlpril lAth. — Many 
natives were on board with fruit, rice, fowls, eggs, and vegeta- 
bles to sell, which we bought, chiefly with tobacco. 

"At twelve o'clock we set sail on our return to Sierra Leone. 
We made slow headway; the wind is light. At six o'clock 
we are not more than three or four leagues from Bassa. 

"We are turning our attention to the state of our settlers at 
Sherbro, and those at Sierra Leone. We think of visiting 
Sherbro as we return. We are very anxious to hear from our 
friends. 

"We feel grateful to God for his mercy in preserving us, and 
enabling us to accomplish our wishes in some degree. Still, 
however, we have continual need of Divine assistance. Our 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 153 

vessel leaks and requires much attention; but our trust is in 
God alone, who has hitherto mercifully preserved us, so that 
'the sun hath not smitten us by day, neither the moon by 
night.' The pestilence which walketh in darkness hath not 
come near us; therefore we are under renewed obligations to 
praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works 
in the great deep. 

"Sunday morning, April \5th. — At sea with a fair wind; 
we have just discovered Cape Mesurado. Had worship this 
morning as usual, and found it good for us to call upon the 
name of the Lord, to read his most holy word, to meditate 
upon his blessed promises, to praise him for past mercies, and 
implore the continuance of his most gracious aid. Our people 
having yesterday evening slaughtered the goat which the king 
presented us, it is necessary to cook some of the flesh, though it 
is the Sabbath day. It is very fine and fat, and quite a luxury, 
notwithstanding we have had plenty of fowls, fish, and oysters, 
fruits and vegetables. 

"Prince Bushrod is a little sea-sick; he appears to be much 
pleased with his dress, and has been persuaded to take off his 
gregres, Davis having told him if he wore clothes, he must not 
wear gregres. We intend to let him go to Regent's Town, 
and stay with Davis and attend school, under the superintend- 
ance of the Rev. Mr. Johnson, where he will have the benefit 
of associating with some of his own countrymen, who are pious 
and useful people. 

''Monday, April 16M.— Last night there was a tremendous 
tornado, with much rain ; at the appearance of a tornado it is 
necessary to take in all sail immediately, as the wind generally 
blows powerfully. 

" Our Kroomen are easily intimidated in bad weather; they 
have on their gregres, those which they think contain the most 
virtue, and are best calculated to preserve them from the great- 
est danger. I endeavoured to persuade them that their gregres 
were useless, and advised them to throw them into the sea, but 
my entreaties were in vain; one had his gregre tied with a 
twine around his head above his ears; I took hold of the string 
and broke it. On examining it, I found it was composed of a 
ball of clay, tied up in a piece of white muslin, with a small 
feather in the end; he was angry, and sorry for his loss. One 
gave me his gregre, that I might view its contents; they con- 



154 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

sisted of nothing more than a kind of black sand tied up in a 
piece of rag. I threw the gregre into the sea, which grieved 
him very much. 

" The Kroomen were all alarmed at their loss; and express- 
ed fears that < tornado catch us/ or that some other accident 
would happen to us. They said that they ' make bad palaver 
on me,' when we arrived at Sierra Leone, and that I should 
have to pay twenty bars (equal to twenty dollars.) They are 
poor creatures indeed, in every sense of the word. They ap- 
pear to be very affectionate to each other. When we are visit- 
ed on board by other Kroomen, they beg food for them, or 
divide their own portion among the visiters. They prefer rice, 
which they boil and use with palm-oil, to animal food. They 
sit down around a large dish of rice, and make use of their 
hands instead of spoons. 

" Tuesday morning, Jlpril \lth. — We were off the Galinas 
with a light wind, proceeding on towards the Shebar, which is 
the entrance into Sherbro Sound, near the eastern part of Sher- 
bro Island. We wished to cross over the Shebar, which is dif- 
ficult without a skilful pilot. A native, who resides at Bohol, 
within the bar, on discovering a vessel, generally goes out ni 
his canoe to meet her. We hoped to be discovered by him, so 
that we might pass over in safety. Our object was to visit our 
people at Yonie, a native town on the island, opposite Bohol, 
which is on the main. At evening we heard the surf roar as 
its waves rolled over the Shebar; it is heard several leagues; 
the wind was ahead, and we made slow progress. Our vessel 
appeared to leak more than she had done, and the inexperience 
of our navigators gave us great anxiety; but our trust was still 
in God alone. 

" Wednesday, ^pril ISih. — Still we were off the Shebar, but 
had made little progress during the night; at twelve o'clock 
there was a tornado; the wind blew powerfully twenty or 
thirty minutes, and was accompanied with considerable rain. 
These tornadoes are nothing to be compared with the hurri- 
canes which are common among the West India Islands. 

" Thursday morning, April 1 ^th. — We were within sight of 
the Shebar, and had a delightful air after the rains. Lying off 
and on with our vessel, hoping a pilot would come off to our 
assistance, several guns were fired as signals for pilots, but 
none came; therefore, we had but two alternatives, one was to 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 155 

sail round the Island, which as the wind is hght requires seven 
or ten days; the other was to send our boat over the Shebar 
for a pilot. As our sailors were unwilling to go in the boat, I 
prevailed upon them by proposing to accompany them. After 
approaching as near the Shebar as was thought prudent, the 
vessel was brought to anchor at 4 o'clock, P. M. The boat 
was manned with the mate of the vessel and three natives, one 
a sailor, the others Kroomen. The mate, although a tolerably 
good boatman, apprehended more danger than I did, for I had 
not much experience in crossing such bars. At length we 
started in the boat, and approached near the bar. It appeared 
dangerous indeed. The mate being at the rudder, gave direc- 
tions to the oarsmen to obey him promptly; he told them he 
should watch the motion of the waves, and that, when he or- 
dered them to pull at the oars, they must pull for their lives. 
We soon found our boat first soaring over the turbulent waves, 
then plunging into the deep, while the waves were rolling in 
quick succession after us, each appearing as if it would ingulf 
us in the ocean. One wave poured about sixty gallons of 
water into the boat, which caused me active employment in 
lading out the water; the boat having been brought quartering 
to the waves, it required quick exertion by the men at the oars, 
who were somewhat frightened, but were enabled to bring the 
the boat to its proper position before the succeeding wave 
came, which carried us over the greatest danger; by that time 
I had nearly laded out the water. Indeed, it was mercy to us 
that we were not swallowed up. Not unto us! not unto us! 
but unto thy name, God, be all the glory, both now and for 
ever!" 

When Messrs. Bacon and Andrus had returned from this 
exploring voyage, they found Mr. Winn and the emigrants 
from America, comfortably situated at Foura Bay; some of 
those who had been located at Sherbro had joined them. The 
people continued, in general, to enjoy comfortable healtli up to 
this time ; except that within a few days some complaints had 
been made of slight fever. Mr. Bacon learning that his wife 
was sick, obtained a horse and proceeded to Regent's Town, 
where she had been hospitably and kindly entertained at the 
Rev. Mr. Johnson's. Here, morning and evening, she enjoyed 
in the church, the sight of the children of Ethiopia stretching 
out their hands unto God. Mrs. Bacon's health continued to 



156 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

decline, and early in May, Mr. Bacon was also attacked by the 
African fever. 

The Alligator, under the command of Lieutenant Robert F. 
Stockton, which had been some time expected, about this time 
arrived. Mr. Winn and Mr. Bacon, the agents of the United 
States government, concluded that it would be expedient to 
remove the people as early as possible from Yonie, on the 
Island of Sherbro, to Bassa Cove, where they had made a con- 
tract for land for a settlement, as has been related. 

The health both of Mr. and Mrs. Bacon continued to decline; 
so that it was judged best for them to seize the first opportu- 
nity of returning to the United States, it being supposed that a 
sea voyage would be serviceable to their health. As the Nau- 
tilus had sailed, and no opportunity of a direct conveyance 
offered, they resolved to sail in a schooner bound for Barba- 
does. At the time of their departure, they were both exceed- 
ingly debilitated ; but after suffering much on the voyage, they 
both, through the goodness of God, arrived again in their na- 
tive country. 

The Rev. Mr. Andrus, agent for the American Colonization 
Society, was so deeply affected with the consideration of the 
wants of Africa, that he resolved to spend his life as a mission- 
ary among the natives ; but alas ! like many others, his race 
was soon run in this unfriendly climate. On the 2Sth of July, 
1821, after a short illness, he died at Sierra Leone. And this 
was not the only victim of the company who came out in the 
Nautilus. In less than a month after the decease of Mr. An- 
drus, both Mr. and Mrs. Winn died at the same place. Mr. 
Winn's death occurred on the 25th of August, and Mrs. Winn's 
on the 31st of the same month. 

The Managers of the Colonization Society, in communicating 
these melancholy facts in their Fifth Report, give the following 
just tribute to the memory of these devoted persons. " The 
fidelity and zeal evinced by these meritorious and respected in- 
dividuals, during the period of their connexion with the service, 
in which they were so soon called to surrender, with the attrac- 
tions of country and of Christian society, their valuable lives, 
demand from the managers an honourable mention, and from 
all the friends of the cause a grateful and cherished recollec- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 15" 



CHAPTER X. 

LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES RESPECTING THE SLAVE TRADE, 
AND DISPOSAL OF RECAPTURED AFRICANS. 

By the compromise between the North and the South at the 
time of adopting the federal constitution, an article v/as intro- 
duced, by which Congress was prohibited from enacting any law 
to prevent the importation of slaves into any of the United States 
which might wish to introduce them, before the year 180S. 
The only State which availed itself of this reserved right was 
South Carolina. Shortly before the limited time had expired, 
the slave trade was briskly carried on in the ports of this State; 
and a considerable number of Africans were imported. In all 
the other maritime States this traffic was forbidden. 

As soon as it could be done constitutionally, a law was passed 
by Congress entirely prohibiting the importation of slaves into 
the United States. This law was enacted as early as March 
3d, 1807, to take effect at the very commencement of the follow- 
ing year. By the provisions of this law, the vessel which 
should be found engaged in the slave trade, with her tackle, 
furniture and lading, were subjected to forfeiture ; one moiety 
to go to the United States, the other to those who should sue 
for the same. And the persons convicted of being engaged in 
this traffic, were made liable to punishment, by fine and impri- 
sonment. It was moreover provided, that no person or persons 
engaged in importing slaves, should possess any right to hold 
them in bondage, or to enjoy their labour; but " the same shall 
remain subject to any regulations, not contravening said pro- 
visions, which the Legislatures of the several States or Terri- 
tories, may at any time heretofore have made, or hereafter 
may make, for disposiyig of any negro, mulatto, or person of 
colour^ The use which some of the States might be disposed 
to make of the power here given, was certainly unforeseen by 
Congress. And not only so, but the law was manifestly defec- 
tive, inasmuch as it authorized the capture of slaves and their 
14 



158 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

importation into the United States, without making any provi- 
sion for the disposal of them when taken ; nor even any provi- 
sion for the expense of their maintenance. The evil of these 
defects was soon experienced, for in June, 1817, the Legislature 
of the State of Georgia, in pursuance of the power granted to 
the States, enacted a law, authorizing and instructing the Gov- 
ernor of the State, to demand and receive all slaves, who being 
condemned under the act of Congress aforesaid, should be intro- 
duced into any of the ports of that State: '-^ and to cause the 
said negroes, mulattoes, or coloured persons to be sold, after 
giving sixty days' notice, in a public gazette.^' This law, 
however, contained one saving clause, by which it was provi- 
ded, " That if previous to any sale of any such persons of 
colour, the Society for the Colonization of the free people of 
colour, within the United States, will undertake to transport 
them to Africa, or any other foreign place which they may pro- 
cure as a colony for free persons of colour, at the sole expense 
of said society, and shall likewise pay all expenses incurred by 
the State since they have been captured and condemned, his 
excellency the Governor is authorized and requested to aid in 
promoting the benevolent views of said society in such manner 
as he may deem expedient." It was not long after the passing 
of this law, before a case occurred to which it was applicable. 
Thirty-four African slaves, captured by a vessel of the United 
States, were brought into Georgia, and the Governor, according 
to the directions of the law, advertised the sale of these captur- 
ed slaves. This advertisement, published in a gazette of Mil- 
ledgeville, was communicated to the Board of Managers of the 
Colonization Society, by the Hon. William H. Crawford, one of 
the Vice-Presidents of the Society. The Board considered it a 
matter of high importance to prevent these unhappy Africans 
from being sold into perpetual slavery in this country; and that 
after tlie slave trade was entirely abolished by law. They needed 
a person of intelligence and character to proceed to Georgia; and 
in this emergency, that early and cordial friend of colonization, 
the Rev. Mr. (now Bishop) Mead, of Virginia, offered his ser- 
vices. A more competent and fit agent for this special busi- 
ness, could not have been found in the United States. As the 
sale was to take place at an early day, it was necessary for the 
agent to use much expedition. He was able by diligence, how- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 159 

ever, to reach Milledgeville in time to arrest the sale, and 
enjoyed the pecnUar pleasure of witnessing the joy of these 
unfortunate Africans, upon receiving a deliverance so little 
expected. Indeed, he felt that the instrumentality which he 
was permitted to have in this rescue, was an ample reward for 
the time and labour of his long journey. The managers also, 
though by this means they incurred a heavy expense, were 
greatly delighted by the successful accomplishment of this desi- 
rable object. 

As this whole difficulty had arisen from the defects of the 
law of Congress, it became now an object of deep interest to 
get Congress to pass a supplementary act, providing against 
the recurrence of such an event. This was accomplished on 
the 3d of March, 1819, when Congress passed a law which pro- 
vided, that when any vessel containing slaves should be cap- 
tured by a vessel of the United States and brought into any of 
our ports, the President should be authorized " to make such 
regulations and arrangements as he may deem expedient, for 
the safe-keeping, support, and removal beyond the limits of the 
United States of all such negroes, mulattoes, and coloured per- 
sons, as should be brought within their jurisdiction; and to 
appoint a proper person or persons to reside on the coast of 
Africa, as agent or agents, for receiving the negroes, mulattoes, 
or persons of colour delivered from on board vessels seized in 
prosecution of the slave trade, by the United States armed ves- 
sels." This act also provided, " That a bounty of twenty-five 
dollars be paid to the officers and crews of the commissioned 
vessels of the United States, or revenue cutters, for each and 
every negro, mulatto, or person of colour, who should be de- 
livered to the marshal, or agent duly appointed to receive 
them." 

This act gave great pleasure to the friends of African coloni- 
zation. The managers of the Colonization Society, in their 
Third Report, say, " This act, by supplying the defects of 
pre-existing laws, and imposing new restraints upon a cruel 
and disgraceful traffic, shed a ray of light, dear to humanity, 
on the expiring moments of the Fifteenth Congress, and ele- 
vated the American character, in the view of the world." 
It was also a favourable circumstance, that President Monroe 
put a construction on this act, entirely conformable to the 
wishes of the managers; and immediately appointed agents 



160 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to receive such liberated Africans as might be sent to them: 
whose duty it was made, if practicable, to restore them to their 
native country and friends; and if that could not be done, to 
provide, at the expense of the United States, for their support. 
It was under this law, and at this time, that the Rev. Samuel 
Bacon, and John P. Bankson, Esq., were appointed agents to 
go to Africa. 

Although the sale of the thirty-four Africans was prevented 
by the timely arrival of the Rev, Mr. Mead; yet they were 
not immediately delivered to the agent of the Colonization 
Society. Certain Spaniards had put in a claim for them as 
their property, and a legal decision in the courts of the United 
States was necessary, before they could be given up. 

Information was also received by the managers, that these 
were not the only captured slaves which had been introduced 
into Georgia; but that several hundred had been introduced 
into the State, in similar circumstances with the thirty-four; 
and that as many as sixty had been actually sold, and were in 
a state of hopeless slavery. The others, having been claimed, 
and the matter being still in dispute, had been hired out through 
the State; it being stipulated that they should be delivered 
when required. It was feared, however, that there would 
exist great difficulty in recovering them, as the securities on 
which they had been hired, were, in many cases, insufficient : 
and if reclaimed, they must still be sold into hereditary slavery, 
unless Congress interposes; or unless the Colonization Society 
should become able to pay the expenses of their capture, and 
claim them under the provisions of the law of Georgia, before 
mentioned. 

It was also ascertained by the managers, that slaves, under 
similar circumstances, had been introduced into Alabama; but 
the manner of disposing of them is not known. These cases 
were laid before the president of the United States, in the 
hope, that he would bring the matter before Congress, and 
obtain the power — if he did not already possess it— to place 
them in the same situation as those brought into the country 
since March, 1819. 

In the year 1820, the managers of the Colonization Society 
received an interesting communication from General John H. 
Cocke, of Virginia; the sum of which was, that General Kos- 
ciusko had bequeathed a fund, exceeding twenty thousand 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 161 

dollars to Mr. Jefferson, in trust, for the purchase of young 
female slaves, that they might be educated, and then emanci- 
pated. It was supposed, that by incorporating this fund with 
those of the society, the will of the testator might be carried 
into effect; which could not be done in Virginia, as by the 
laws, no slaves could be emancipated to remain in the State. 

Mr. Mead's visit to the South was not only the means of 
rescuing from slavery the Africans mentioned above, with the 
prospect of their being restored to their native country; but 
was, in other respects, highly beneficial to the colonization cause; 
especially, by the aid which he rendered in originating and 
organizing auxiliary colonization societies. 

During this year, the society evidently rose rapidly in the 
estimation of the public, as many auxiliaries were formed in 
almost every part of the United States, and many of the most 
distinguished citizens of the republic openly appeared in favour 
of the institution. 

We ought not, however, to omit to mention, that the Rev. 
Mr. Mead's efficient services were not confined to his visit to 
Georgia; for he travelled as far as Maine, as the voluntary 
agent of the Board, and every where, by his weight of charac- 
ter, zeal, and eloquence, greatly promoted the interests of the 
Colonization Society. 

The communications from England, this year, were also 
very encouraging to the managers ; and at home, among the 
liberal contributors to their funds, they had the pleasure of 
inserting the name of his excellency, M. Hyde de Neuville, 
minister plenipotentiary of France. 

The President, in his message to both Houses of Congress, 
informed them, " that it had been decided to send a public ship 
to the coast of Africa, with two agents, who will take with 
them tools, and other implements which shall be necessary. To 
each of these agents a small salary had been allowed; to the 
principal, fifteen hundred dollars, and to the other, twelve hun- 
dred." These measures of the government were well intended, 
and favourable to the cause of colonization ; but in the adop- 
tion of all such measures there seems to have been a great 
want of foresight, and careful attention to the circumstances of 
the case. For while agents were appointed, and the recaptured 
Africans ordered to be sent back, the government had made no 
14* 



162 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

provision for their reception or comfortable accommodation in 
that continent. The first object, undoubtedly, should have 
been to secure a territory, and this before any persons were 
transported to that country. But in the planting of colonies, 
as well as other things, wisdom is learned by painful experi- 
ence. We have already seen the disasters which attended this 
first emigration, and how many valuable lives have been sacri- 
ficed in the prosecution of this noble enterprise. 

The managers of the society, having it as one important 
object of the scheme which they had undertaken, to put an end 
to the slave trade, were grieved to learn, that notwithstanding 
the laws which had been enacted, prohibiting this nefarious 
traffic, still it was carried on, and that many slaves had been 
clandestinely introduced into the United States, were care- 
ful to call the attention of the government to this subject, 
which led to an inquiry, the result of which was, that the slave 
trade had been carried on to some extent on the south-western 
coast of the United States. 

When the second report of the Board was published, copies 
were forwarded through Mr. Rush, our ambassador, to His Roy- 
al Highness William Frederick, and to Lord Gambler. From 
both of these noble personages, letters were returned of a highly 
encouraging nature. The former, in his note to Mr. Rush, 
says, " It is no small gratification to me to receive the interesting 
report of the society for colonizing the free people of colour. 
The object is most important, and dear to the best feelings of 
human nature. It is, I trust, unnecessary for me to express the 
satisfaction I shall feel in perusing the account of the proceed- 
ings of an institution founded for such a benevolent object, and 
which is likely to be attended with such useful consequences. 
And I hope I may be allowed to express my anxious wish that 
the meritorious exertions of the gentlemen of this excellent 
society may be crowned with success." 

Lord Gambler addressed the following gratifying note to Mr. 
Rush. " Lord Gambler presents his compliments to the com- 
mittee of the society for colonizing the free people of colour of 
the United States, and returns them his best thanks for the 
honour they have conferred on him, in presenting him with 
their second annual report to the society, through Mr. Rush. 
The society has Lord Gambler's cordial wishes for their sue- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 163 

they are engaged, and will be lihppy to avail himself of any 
occasion that may offer to promote the great objects of the 
institution." 

The following interesting account is borrowed from an arti- 
cle in the North American Review, attributed to the pen of 
Jared Sparks, Esq. It is embodied in the Seventh Annual Re- 
port of the Board to the Society, and is as follows: 

" Some weeks ago," says the writer, "a vessel came into the 
harbour of Baltimore, which from various circumstances was 
thought to have negroes unlawfully detained on board. So 
strong was the ground of suspicion, that a few individuals took 
on themselves the responsibility of searching the vessel, and 
they found concealed eleven negroes, who were foreigners, 
incapable of speaking or understanding the English language. 
A prosecution was accordingly entered against the captain as 
being engaged in the slave-trade; but as he affirmed, that the 
negroes were his own property lawfully acquired, and no proof 
to the contrary could be adduced, he was acquitted. The law 
demands that in all doubtful claims to the property of slaves, 
the labour of proof shall rest with the claimant, and as the cap- 
tain in the present case, could produce no such proof, the ne- 
groes were detained by the court, although he was permitted 
to escape. Through the humanity of some of the active mem- 
bers of the Colonization Society, these negroes were provided 
for, by being distributed among several families in the neigh- 
bourhood of Baltimore, to remain till they should learn the 
language, and be able to express their wishes in regard to their 
future destination. 

"Fortunately, about this time, a young African by the name 
of Wilkinson, a native of the Susoo country, on the Rio Pongas, 
arrived in Baltimore. Some years ago a chief of the Susoos 
entrusted two of his sons to the care of the captain of a French 
vessel, trading in the Rio Pongas, who promised to take them 
to the West Indies, have them educated, and return them at 
the end of four years. When the stipulated time had gone by, 
and nothing was heard of the boys, Wilkinson was despatched 
to the West Indies to search them out; he succeeded in finding 
them, but had the mortification to learn that the treacherous 
captain had not been true to his word ; he had deserted the 
boys, and they were turned over to work with the slaves. 
Wilkinson recovered them, however, without difficulty,^sent 



164 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

them to their father, and came himself to Baltimore to take pas- 
sage home in the colonization packet. He had already been 
several years in England, and spoke om* language with fluency. 
Soon after his arrival he visited some of the recaptured Afri- 
cans just mentioned, and discovered that they came from the 
region bordering on his own country, and spoke a dialect 
which he well understood, although it was not his native Susoo 
tongue. They were overjoyed at seeing a person with whom 
they could converse, but were incredulous when he told them 
that they were free, and might return home if they chose. 
They said he was deceiving them, that they knew they were 
slaves, and should never again see their native land, their rela- 
tives and friends; so thoroughly were they impressed with the 
melancholy conviction of being in slavery, that no protestations 
could make them believe in his entire sincerity. They exclaimed 
with raptures at the thought of freedom, and of going back to 
Africa, but would not hope that such a dream could ever be 
realized. The situation of these persons was made known by 
the Colonization Society to the President of the United States, 
who sahJL^that if proper certificates were given of their desire 
to return, the government would pay the expense of transpor- 
tation. The navy agent at Baltimore was ordered to have 
them examined. They were brought together for that pur- 
pose, and as the examination could only be carried on through 
Wilkhison as interpreter, he gave his testimony under oath. 
We shall speak of this interesting examination nearly in the 
words of Mr. Coale, secretary of the Baltimore auxiliary so- 
ciety, who was present and took an account of the proceedings 
in writing. The general question was put to them severally, 
whether they wished to remain in this country as freemen, 
or be sent to Mesurado, and thence if practicable to their 
homes. Dowrey was the first who was called to answer. He 
was chief in his own country, of whom Wilkinson had some 
knowledge. He replied, 'I wish to go home, I wish to see 
my father, my wife, and children; I have been at Mesurado, 
I live but three day's walk from that place.' Barterou an- 
swered, ' Let me go home, I have a wife, I have two children, 
I live a morning's walk from Dowrey.' The next person call- 
ed was Mousah, the son of a highly respectable chief, with 
whom Wilkinson was personally acquainted; he had been liv- 
ing with General Harper, and when asked if he was not dis- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 165 

posed to remain and be instructed, and go home hereafter and 
teach his countrymen, he repUed; 'General Harper is a good 
man, he will give me clothes and food, and be kind to me, but 
he cannot give me my wife and children," When the general 
question was put to Cubangerie, he replied; ' Why do you ask 
this question over and over? I am so rejoiced at the thoughts 
of returning, that I want words to express myself. Do you 
not know that nothing is so dear as a man's home?' Mazzey 
said, <■ My mother is living, my father is living, I have two sis- 
ters, I shall be grateful to those who send me to my family and 
friends.' The answer of Fanghah was, ' I shall be joyful to go 
home, I have a father, mother, wife, sister, and three children 
to meet me in my own country.' Corree said that all he de- • 
sired was to be landed in Africa, and he should soon find his 
way home. Banhah made nearly the same reply. 

" After these eight persons were examined, they expressed 
great anxiety to be joined by two of their companions not pre- 
sent. These had been placed with a man, who, it seems, was 
not willing to part with them, and had reported that they wish- 
ed to remain. This proved a false pretence set up with a view 
to profit by the labour of the negroes; and whatever may be 
the power of the law in such a case, it will be difficult to make 
it appear in the eye of justice, in any better light than the 
crime of being engaged in the slave-trade. A writ on a ficti- 
tious suit was taken out against the negroes, and they were 
thus released from thraldom and brought to the place of exam- 
ination. When they arrived, their companions sprang with 
ecstasies to meet them, embraced them again and again, caught 
them in their arms, raised them from the ground, and continued 
for half an hour at intervals to embrace and shake them by the 
hand. Nothing could exceed their joy at being told that they 
were free, and would sail in a day or two for Africa. 

" These ten persons, thus providentially rescued from perpe- 
tual slavery, and made happy in the anticipations of again be- 
holding their native land, and of carrying gladness to many a 
weeping disconsolate heart, owed their deliverance chiefly to 
the Colonization Society. They have gone home to prove to 
their countrymen and friends, that white men are not all bar- 
barians, traffickers in human flesh, and artificers of human 
misery; but that the flame of benevolent feeling may some- 
times kindle and burn even in the breasts of this portion of 



166 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

their race whom they had hitherto known only as catchers of 
their own species, and workers in crime. 

"We know not the spring of other men's joys, but as for 
ourselves, call it weakness or enthusiasm, or what you will, 
we frankly confess, that the heartfelt delight of having been 
instrumental in restoring these men to freedom and happiness, 
would have been to us a double compensation for all the em- 
barrassments, rebuffs, and obstacles, numerous and severe as 
they have been, which the members of the society have thus 
far experienced. Had they brought to pass from the begin- 
ning only this one deed, we would hft up our voice in praise of 
their noble achievement, and say they had been blessed with a 
good reward. These rescued Africans, full of gratitude to their 
deliverers, sailed with Wilkinson in the Fidelity, for Mesura- 
do, in October last; Dr. Ayres had directions to send them home 
as soon as they arrived." 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 167 



CHAPTER XI 

AGENCY OF DR. AYRES AND PURCHASE OF MESURADO BY HIM 
AND CAPTAIN R. F. STOCKTON. 

It was considered a circumstance peculiarly favourable and 
providential, that at this critical period of the society's affairs, 
Dr. Ely Ayres, a medical gentleman, believed to be possessed 
of every qualification for the office, offered himself to the Board 
to go out to Africa; and in the month of July 1822, sailed in 
the armed schooner Shark, Lieutenant Perry. Until the arrival 
of Dr. Ayres, the emigrants had never enjoyed the regular 
attendance of a physician. The society were also encouraged 
by the latest reports from Africa, for out of a population of 
one hundred people of colour, natives of America, some of 
whom had been exposed to two rainy seasons, not more than 
four deaths occurred during the year; and of these, it was 
believed, that only one was attributable to the climate. It was 
also ascertained by a comparison of facts at Sierra Leone, that 
the climate is much less noxious to black than to white men, 
coming from the same climate. 

Soon after the arrival of Dr. Ayres in the Shark, Captain 
Stockton, in the Alligator, came on the coast, and the opportu- 
nity was seized, in compliance with his instructions, to explore 
the coast, and select and purchase a territory ; and Captain 
Stockton's orders were to cooperate with the agents of the 
Colonization Society in securing a convenient territory for the 
settlement of the emigrants. It was also a peculiarly favoura- 
ble circumstance, that the services of an officer of so much in- 
telligence, energy, and personal courage should have been put 
into requisition, on this occasion. 

Dr. Ayres, leaving Mr. Wiltberger in charge of the affairs 
of the society at Foura Bay, accompanied Captain Stockton on 
an exploring voyage along the coast, in the schooner Augusta, 



168 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

which, it will be recollected, had been purchased by the Rev. 
Samuel Bacon. 

On the 11th of December, they came to anchor in the Mesu- 
rado Bay, and the appearance of the coast in this quarter, con- 
firming the favourable reports which they had heard, they de- 
termined to land, and attempt a negotiation. After much 
delay they obtained a promise from the king to hold a " pala- 
ver," but to reach his residence they were obliged to leave the 
coast, and make their way by winding, narrow paths, through 
an almost impervious jungle. They were aware that they 
were putting themselves completely in the power of these bar- 
barians, in whose breasts every malignant passion had been 
fostered by the nefarious slave trade ; but they felt the import- 
ance of making a bold effort; and so they took, as it were, 
their lives in their hands, and conducted by a guide, proceeded 
until they arrived at the place where the palaver was to be 
held. Here they found the king and his head-men, with hun- 
dreds of people collected. At one time, the assembly became 
highly excited, and, indeed, so agitated, that Captain Stockton 
and Dr. Ayres were placed in imminent danger of their lives ; 
but the courage and presence of mind of Captain Stockton, on 
this trying occasion, extricated them, and restored the multitude 
to a state of tranquillity, and not only so, but they succeeded 
before the "palaver broke up" in forming a contract for the 
purchase of a territory, which was drawn up and executed 
with the usual solemnities. This contract or treaty was signed 
by six kings, by their marks, and by Captain Robert F. Stock- 
ton and Dr. Ely Ayres. The territory purchased, included the 
whole of the Cape, and the mouth of the river, and running 
back from the coast a certain distance ; but of necessity the 
boundaries must have been very indefinite, as so little was 
known of the country by the American agents. This part of 
the coast has always been considered very important, and fre- 
quent efforts had been made by Europeans to secure it, without 
success. Dr. Ayres, in his communication to the managers of 
the Colonization Society, says, "It has been the anxious desire 
of European powers, to get possession of this place, for more 
than one hundred years. Both the English and French have 
made repeated trials to obtain it." Dr. Ayres also gives many 
reasons for preferring Cape Mesurado to Bassa Cove, which 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 169 

had been selected by Messrs. Bacon and Andrus, which it is 
unnecessary here to detail. It may, however, be gratifying to 
the reader to see his account of the meeting at which the con- 
tract was made, " After waiting some time, they sent off an 
express for king Peter, It had been represented to us as unsafe 
to go on shore, without being armed, and that we should cer- 
tainly be murdered and robbed. But we determined to go 
unarmed, as an evidence that our aim was pacific. While sit- 
ting and waiting for the king under the shed of a Krooman, 
the people kept collecting, most of them with knives hanging 
to their sides. At length there came five or six armed with 
muskets, I began to think there might be some truth in the 
reports. We were now surrounded by fifty or sixty, armed in 
this way, and we without means of defence. I narrowly 
marked their countenances, as also that of Captain Stockton, 
I saw that he was no way concerned, and a little observation 
showed there was yet no hostility in their intentions. * * 

" Captain Stockton has shown himself throughout this busi- 
ness, to be the most consummate master of the human heart; 
and it is entirely owing to his address and penetration, that we 
have succeeded in obtaining a situation, the most desirable, in 
many respects, of any on the coast; and for which thousands 
of pounds would have been given by other persons, could they 
have obtained it," 

The consideration given for the territory, consisted of a 
large number of articles, enumerated in detail, which, though 
possessing no great intrinsic value, were such as are held in 
high esteem by savages. An incident of thrilling interest 
occurred in the progress of this negotiation. When the 
agents first made known to the king that their object was 
to obtain, by purchase, the Cape and the Island at the mouth 
of the river, he strongly objected to parting with the Cape, 
saying, "If any white man settle there, then king Peter 
would die — they would bury him, and then his woman would 
cry a plenty," Care was taken not to oppose the known pre- 
judices of the people, nor to present to them the advantages of 
civilization and Christianity, of which they could form no con- 
ception; but they urged upon the king the great advantages of 
trade, which from such a settlement would accrue to his people. 
After giving a vague promise that he would give the land, and 
15 



170 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION, 

after seeing his head-men, the king said he would come again, 
the next day, and conclude the bargain. Accordingly, the pala- 
ver was broken up, and the king departed. " Next day," says 
Dr. Ayres, " we went to meet his majesty. We found his head- 
men but no king : yet we sent an express for him. It was not 
until some time, and several messages had passed, that we could 
get him to meet us. When he came, the palaver was continued 
for about three hours; the unfortunate subject of the slave trade 
was broached, and we again broke up the palaver. Our pros- 
pect was now very dull ; we however determined not to 
give the subject up lightly; and the next day went on shore 
again, where the king had appointed to meet us. When we 
got there, we found neither the king nor any of his head-men. 
Our prospects now, were truly discouraging. We, as we had 
done before, sent an express for him. He sent word, he would 
not come nor let us have any land. It then became necessary 
to go and seek the king in his capital, or give up the thing as 
impracticable, as all persons had found it, who had attempted 
to negotiate for this place, before. To go to the town was to 
place ourselves entirely in the power of a nation, who had 
always been represented as so savage as to render it unsafe to 
land on their shore, without being completely armed. How- 
ever, we were determined to go; and were conducted by a Kroo- 
man, through dark dismal ways, at one time wading through 
the water, and at another wallowing through the mud ; passing 
through thick and dark swamps, in narrow paths, for six or 
seven miles into the interior." When they arrived at king 
Peter's capital, they were shown into a palaver hall, spread 
with mats, to wait the coming of the king. The head-men 
came and shook hands, and said, that the king was dressing, 
and would see them in a short time. After about an hour, the 
king made his appearance; but instead of coming to shake 
hands, he went and seated himself in another palaver hall ; 
when his prime minister came and invited them to come to the 
king. He then shook hands, but looked very angry. The first 
thing which he said, was, " What you want that land for?" 
Although this had been fully and repeatedly explained already, 
yet the matter was all gone over again. A large number of 
people had now collected, and appeared in no very pleasant 
humour. Captain Stockton, not liking the position which he 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 171 

occupied, went and took his seat very near the king. Just 
at this time a man who was acquainted with the circumstance 
of a youth having been brought away from Bassa, who had 
unfortunately died at Sierra Leone, where he was left to obtain 
an education, now came forward and charged the agents with 
carrying away and killing the aforesaid youth. Another Kroo- 
man who had seen some of our colonists on board the vessel, 
gave information that these were the people who had been 
quarrelling at such a rate in Sherbro Island. The multitude 
were not a little excited by these communications. But to in- 
crease their difficulties and embarrassment, a mulatto fellow 
presented himself to Captain Stockton, and told him that he 
was one of those whom he had recently captured, and informed 
the assembly that this was the very person who had captured 
several slave-vessels. The presence of these men accounted 
for the change which had taken place in the feelings of the 
king and his people. The situation of the agents was now 
critical in the extreme; surrounded by a multitude of savages, 
exasperated in the highest degree, by the communications 
which had been made to them by these men. They were also 
entirely unarmed, except that Captain Stockton had his pistols 
in his pocket. In a moment the vengeful feelings of the multi- 
tude broke out in a horrid war-yell, and every one of them rose 
to his feet, with the most menacing aspect. At this critical 
moment, Captain Stockton, perceiving that immediate violence 
was intended, deliberately rose, and drawing out one of his 
pistols presented it at the head of the king, while with the other 
hand raised to heaven, he solemnly appealed to the omniscient 
and omnipotent God, who was there present to witness what 
was going on, against the injustice with which they had been 
treated — on whose protection in this dangerous crisis he threw 
himself. This act of extraordinary courage and self-possession, 
doubtless, was the means, under God, of saving the lives of 
these two brave men. The king was intimidated, and the 
multitude fearing for the life of their sovereign, which they saw 
to be in imminent peril, fell flat on their faces ; and in a little 
time, the first impulse of savage rage having subsided, they be- 
came calm, and the palaver went on more amicably than be- 
fore. 

Thus by the steady prudence and perseverance of Dr. Ayres, 



172 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and by the energy, chivalrous courage, and extraordinary self- 
possession of Captain Stockton, the greatest obstacle to the 
success of the colonization enterprise was overcome; and suffi- 
cient land for a settlement was purchased from those persons 
who were acknowledged to have an undisputed right to the 
country. The contract was made and signed in all due form, 
and part of the price immediately paid. The following is a 
literal and full copy of the original instrument by which this 
important territory was acquired: 

Agreement for the Cession and Purchase of Lands, entered into between the 
Agents of the American Colonization Society and the King and Headmen of 
Mesurado. 

Know all men, that this contract, made on the fifteenth 
day of December, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight 
hundred and twenty-one, between King Peter, King George, 
King Zoda, and King Long Peter, their Princes and Headmen, 
of the one part; and Captain Robert F. Stockton and Eli Ayres, 
of the other part; witnesseth: that whereas certain persons, 
citizens of the United States of America, are desirous to esta- 
blish themselves on the western coast of Africa, and have in- 
vested Captain Robert F. Stockton and Eli Ayres with full 
powers to treat with and purchase from us, the said Kings, 
Princes, and Headmen, certain lands, viz : Dozoa Island, and 
also that portion of land bounded north and west by the At- 
lantic ocean, and on the south and east by a line drawn 
in a south-east direction from the mouth of the Mesurado 
river, we, the said Kings, Princes, and Headmen, being fully 
convinced of the pacific and just views of the said citizens of 
America, and being desirous to reciprocate the friendship and 
affection expressed for us and our people, do hereby, in con- 
sideration of so much paid in hand, viz: six muskets, one box 
beads, two hogsheads of tobacco, one cask gunpowder, six bars 
iron, ten iron pots, one dozen knives and forks, one dozen 
spoons, six pieces blue baft, four hats, three coats, three pair 
shoes, one box pipes, one keg nails, twenty looking-glasses, 
three pieces handkerchiefs, three pieces calico, three canes, four 
umbrellas, one box soap, one barrel rum: and to he paid the 
following— three casks tobacco, one box pipes, three barrels 
rum, twelve pieces cloth, six bars iron, one box beads, fifty 
knives, twenty looking-glasses, ten iron pots, (difierent sizes,) 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 173 

twelve guns, three barrels gunpowder, one dozen plates, one 
dozen knives and forks, twenty hats, five casks beef, five 
barrels pork, ten barrels biscuit, twelve decanters, twelve glass 
tumblers, and fifty shoes: forever cede and relinquish the 
above described lands, with all thereto appertaining, or belong- 
ing, or reported so to belong, to Captain Robert F. Stockton 
and Eli Ayres, to have and to hold the said premises, for 
the use of these said citizens of America. And we, the said 
Kings, and Princes, and Headmen, do further pledge ourselves 
that we are the lawful owners of the above described lands, 
without manner of condition, limitation, or other matter. 

The contracting parties pledge themselves to live in peace 
and friendship, for ever; and do further contract not to make 
war, or otherwise molest or disturb each other. 

We, the Kings, Princes, and Headmen, for a proper con- 
sideration by us received, do further agree to build for the use 
of the said citizens of America six large houses, on any place 
selected by them within the above described tract of ceded 
land. 

In witness whereof, the said Kings, Princes, and Head- 
men, on the one part, and Captain Robert F. Stockton and Eli 
Ayres, of the other part, do set their hands to this covenant on 
the day and year above written. 
(Signed,) 

King Peter, X his mark. 
King George, X his mark. 
King ZoDA, X his mark. 
King Long Peter, X his mark. 
King Governor, >^ his mark;. 
King Jimmy, ><1 his m^ark. 

Captain Robert F. Stockton. 
Eli Ayres, M. D. 

Tiri ^ John S. Mill, 

Witness ^ John Craig. 

As there were some houses on Cape Mesurado, owned or 
claimed by John S. Mill, these were also purchased, and the 
following contract entered into: 

Agreement with J. S. Mill. — I hereby contract, for the con- 
sideration of one barrel of rum, one tierce of tobacco, one bar- 
rel of bread, one barrel of beef, one barrel of pork, and one 
piece of trade-cloth, to give to Captain Robert F. Stockton and 
15* 



174 HISTORY OF AFRICAN" COLONIZATION. 

Eli Ayres all my right and title to the houses situated on the 
land bought by them on Cape Mesurado. 

In witness whereof I have hereunto signed my name, on 
this sixteenth day of December, one thousand eight hundred 
and twenty-one. 

(Signed,) John S. Mill. 

„,. C Charles Carey, X his mark. 

fyit?iess ^y^-^^Yiam Rogers, X his mark. 

We promise to present to Charles Carey one coat. 

(Signed.) Robert F. Stockton, 

Eli Ayres. 

The news of this felicitous transaction gave joy to all the 
friends of the cause in this country, and inspired the Board 
with new courage, as well as more confident hopes of ultimate 
success. 

Immediately after the purchase of a territory, Dr. Ayres 
took measures to have the colonists removed from Sierra Leone 
to Mesurado. Some of the people, while they resided at 
Foura Bay, manifested something of a spirit of insubordination; 
and when it was announced by Dr. Ayres, that on the first of 
January, a vessel would be ready to remove them to the pur- 
chased possession, a few of these refractory persons declared 
their unwillingness to remove, and accordingly remained as 
residents of the British colony, '''an event," say the managers, 
••by no means to be regretted.'' 

The colonists arrived at Cape Mesurado on the 7th of Jan- 
uary, 1S22. 

It was soon ascertained that King Peter had been condemned 
by the other chiefs of the country, for the sale of the land, and 
had been threatened with the loss of his head ; and that it had 
been decreed that our people should leave the coast. Notwith- 
standing this unpleasant information, the vessel was unloaded, 
and preparations made for building. It was found indispensa- 
ble, however, to have another interview with the kings, when 
it was found that their first intelligence was but too well 
founded; but the energy and firmness of Dr. Ayres, the agent, 
checked the rising opposition and restored tranquillity. 

During the month of February, disease prevlliled among the 
people, and prevented any vigorous exertions. Those of the 
colonists who could not obtain a passage among the first, or 
who were detained on other accounts at Foura Bay, found an 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 175 

opportunity of following their brethren, in the Calypso, about 
the middle of February. 

The business of the colony requiring the agent to visit 
Sierra Leone, he went thither, and remained until the 7th 
of April, when on landing at Mesurado, he found the colony 
m a state of confusion and alarm. An unfortunate affair 
had like to have produced a failure of the whole scheme. 
A small vessel, a prize to an English cruiser, with thirty cap- 
tured slaves on board, and bound for Sierra Leone, put in 
for water at Perseverance Island, a part of the recently pur- 
chased territory, where the colonists were now stationed. 
Having parted her cable, she drifted on shore, and was wreck- 
ed. The custom of the coast appropriates to the petty chief 
oii whose land a shipwreck takes place, the vessel and her 
entire contents. King George, to whom the land had be- 
longed before the late purchase, sent his people to take pos- 
session of the vessel and goods. Resistance was made by the 
captain and his crew, and the savages were repelled. While 
the natives were preparing to renew the attack, the cap- 
tain sent to the agent of the colony for aid, which was rea- 
dily granted. A boat was instantly manned and sent to his 
relief; and a brass field piece on the island was brought to bear 
on the assailants, who were put to the rout, with the loss of 
two killed, and several wounded. The crew and slaves were 
brought in safety to the land, but the vessel went to pieces, and 
most of the stores and property were lost. The natives were 
greatly exasperated, both at the loss of their prey, and. the 
death of some of their people. On the following day they 
renewed their attack with a greater force, and a British soldier, 
and one of the colonists lost their lives. The state of feehng 
towards the colonists now became very vindictive; and the 
natives, fearing that their most valued rights were about to be 
invaded, and especially, that the slave trade, on which they 
depended for all their gains and supplies, was about to be 
destroyed, determined forthwith to extirpate the infant colony. 
Only a part of the goods stipulated in the treaty of purchase 
had been paid, and they now refused to receive the remainder, 
and insisted on returning what they had received. To this the 
agent would not consent, and to accomplish their purpose they 
had recourse to a stratagem. They invited him to an amicable 
conference, and as soon as they had him in their power they 



176 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

made him a prisoner, and detained him, until he consented to 
take back the articles paid for the land. Then they insisted on 
the colonists leaving the coast; or, at least, leaving that place. 
He urged the difficulty of being obhged to go, when they had 
no place to which they could remove. They did, therefore, 
so far relax in their demands, as to permit them to remain until 
they could make a purchase elsewhere. In the meantime Dr. 
Ayres made an appeal to King Boatswain, who held a kind of 
supremacy among the kings, and who, on hearing the allega- 
tions on both sides, decided in favour of the colonists. He said, 
the bargain had been fair on both sides, and that he saw no 
grounds for rescinding the contract. He therefore decided, that 
the kings who sold the land, should receive the stipulated goods, 
and give up all claim to the territory purchased for the colony. 
With this judgment, though reluctantly, they were obliged to 
comply, for King Boatswain threatened them with vengeance 
if they refused to comply. But no sooner had Boatswain 
departed to his own territory, than they again resolved to de- 
stroy the colony. The colonists being informed of their inten- 
tion, determined to make the best preparation they could for 
resistance. 

The Dey tribe, which occupies this region, were thrown into 
a state of fervid excitement. They saw that a dangerous 
enemy had been introduced into their bosom. Old King Peter, 
the patriarch of the nation, was capitally impeached and brought 
to trial, on a charge of having betrayed the interests of his 
people, and sold the country to strangers. The accusation was 
substantiated, and for a while it was doubtful whether he would 
not be subjected to capital punishment for his treason. 

Another unfortunate accident occurred. An English sailor, 
by discharging a cannon in the immediate vicinity of the store- 
house, set the building on fire, and most of the provisions and 
clothing of the colonists were burnt, with the house. 

Dr, Ayres found it necessary to have another meeting of the 
kings. In this convention he gave a concise history of his pro- 
ceedings since his arrival in Africa, and maintained with spirit 
and boldness his right to the purchased territory. After some 
opposition and delay, the whole assembly, amounting to seven- 
teen kings, and thirty-four half-kings, assented to the settlement 
of the colonists ; and on the 25th of April, 1822, the American 
flag was hoisted on Cape Mesurado. 



HISTORY or AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 177 

Dr. Ayres now resolved on a visit to the United States, to 
make known the sitnation,and urgent wants of the colony, and 
to obtain supplies for its relief. Before his departure, he again 
visited Sierra Leone, obtained provisions for the colony, re- 
turned to Mesurado, appointed one of the most respectable 
colonists to act as superintendent during his absence ; and after 
witnessing with high satisfaction, the peace and comparative 
prosperity of the colony, he took passage for the United States 
on the 4th of June, 1822. 

Among the colonists who distinguished themselves for their 
good conduct, fortitude, and active cooperation with the agent, 
were Elijah Johnston, Joseph Blake, Lot Carey, and Richard 
Sampson. 



CHAPTER XII. 

AGENCY OF MR. JEHUDI ASHMUN. 

Whether it was a prudent step for Dr. Ayres, the agent, to 
leave the colony in their present exposed and unsettled state, 
is a question which we shall not discuss; as all the circum- 
stances of the case cannot be now fully understood. No doubt, 
in taking this step, he believed that the necessities of the colony 
urgently required, that he should visit the United States with- 
out delay; but it is equally certain that he left the colony at a 
very critical time, and in a very perilous condition. Indeed 
had it not been for the unexpected and providential arrival of 
Mr. J. Ashmun, with a recruit of emigrants for the colony, all 
would, as far as human foresight goes, have been lost, and the 
little colony utterly extirpated. 

The Africans released from slavery in Georgia, being now 
ready to return, the Board of managers were anxious to find a 
suitable person to take charge of them, and some other emi- 
grants who were desirous of going to Africa. The government 
were to pay the expenses of those who had been brought into 
this country, and the brig Strong was chartered for their ac- 
commodation. 



178 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Just at this time Mr, J. Ashmnn — a name which will ever 
be prominent in the history of African colonization — offered his 
services, and was appointed to superintend the expedition. 
As the brig was to sail from Baltimore, he spent about a month 
in that city, soliciting donations and purchasing supplies. On 
the 15th of May, 1823, all the passengers were assembled on 
board. And on the 20th, the vessel left Baltimore. Mrs. Ash- 
mun accompanied her husband, as it was uncertain how long 
he might be detained on the coast of Africa, for he was re- 
quested by the Board, to take charge of the colony, if the other 
agents should not be there. The Strong was found to be a dull 
sailer, and experiencmg much rough weather, she was eighty- 
one days on the passage. 

On the 9th of August, 1822, Mr. Ashmun stood on Cape 
Mesurado; and having ascertained that both agents had left 
the country, he assumed, agreeably to his pledge to the Board, 
the direction as principal agent of the affairs of the colony. He 
found a respectable emigrant in charge of the public property, 
and acting as agent during Dr. Ayres's absence; but he found 
no books or documents, defining the limits of the purchased 
territory, explaining the state of the negotiations with the na- 
tives, or throwing light on the duties of the agency. 

"Cape Mesurado, elevated from seventy-five to eighty feet 
above the sea, forms the abrupt termination of a narrow 
tongue of land, in length thirty-six miles, and from one and a 
half to the three miles in breadth; bounded on the south-west by 
the ocean, and on the north-east by the rivers Mesurado and 
Junk, running in nearly opposite directions; their sources, how- 
ever, are very near together, but their course is crooked. The 
isthmus between them constitutes the junction of the Mesura- 
do peninsula to the mainland. The site chosen for the original 
settlement, (Monrovia,) is two miles from the point of the Cape, 
on the ridge, approaching here to within one hundred and fifty 
yards of the river, to which there is a steep descent. This site, 
and a large portion of the peninsula, was, when ceded to the 
society, covered with a lofty and dense forest, entangled with 
vines and brushwood, the haunts of savage beasts, and through 
which the barbarians were accustomed to thread their narrov/ 
and winding paths to the coast."* 

* Ashmun's Life by Gurley.' 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 179 

When Mr. Ashmun arrived, a small spot had been cleared, 
about thirty houses constructed in the native style, with a store- 
house entirely too small to receive any supplies, in addition to 
those it then contained. The rainy season was at its height, 
the public property had been chiefly consumed by fire. Some 
of the settlers, already on the ground, were but imperfectly 
sheltered: and for those just arrived, no preparation had been 
made. The settlement had no adequate means of defence, 
while the chiefs of the country no longer concealed their hostile 
designs. The whole population, including those who had 
arrived in the Strong, did not exceed one hundred and thirty; 
of whom, thirty-five only were capable of bearing arms. 

Mr. Ashmun, after taking a comprehensive view of the con- 
dition of the colony, began to adopt such measures as were 
practicable for the safety and subsistence of the people. A 
colonial journal was opened with the design of recording all 
important transactions and events. Separate inventories were 
entered in a book of the public stores, found in the colony, and 
of those sent in the Strong; both by the United States and the 
society. Orders were given for the erection of a storehouse; 
for completing a building, just commenced, for the recaptured 
Africans; and for the best preparation that could be made for 
the other emigrants, who came out in the Strong, in the houses 
already occupied. 

Soon after her arrival, the Strong was forced from her moor- 
ings, with the loss of one of her anchors; and the vessel for 
some time, was in the most imminent hazard of being driven 
ashore; and when she was got out of the bay, formed by Cape 
Mesurado and Cape Mount, and was again brought to a fixed 
position, it was at the distance of five miles from the settle- 
ment. During this disagreeable state of things, the agent and 
all the emigrants were on board. The people, however, were 
safely landed on the 13th and 14th of August; but it was four 
weeks before the agent had the satisfaction of seeing all the 
stores safely landed. 

Efforts were made, without delay, to ascertain, as far as this 
was practicable, the dispositions of the principal chiefs of the 
country; and by off'ers of an honest and friendly trade, and 
by proposals to instruct their sons, to bind them in the most 
amicable relations to the colony. He entered into correspond- 
ence with King Peter, and King Bristol, who both expressed a 



180 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

kind feeling towards the colony, and a willingness to trade 
witli the people of the settlement. Bat under these plausible 
and friendly professions, there was lurking in the minds of 
many of the chiefs a spirit of determined hostility. The agent's 
principal hope of safety consisted in the difficulty of so many 
independent chiefs being able to unite, or to agree on any plan 
of hostile operation. 

The recaptured Africans M'-ere placed by Mr. Ashmun in a 
community by themselves, under a judicious superintendent, 
who was directed to regulate their hours, lead their family de- 
votion, and instruct them in reading, writing, arithmetic, and 
the principles of the Christian religion. They were also to be 
taught agriculture, and trained up in habits of cleanliness and 
industry. Orders were also given for a comfortable house to 
be erected for the agent, and that lots should be assigned to 
the new comers. It was also determined by the agent, that 
several natives, mostly sons of head-men, should be received 
into the colony as labourers, and for compensation, be instruct- 
ed in the English language ; that as soon as practicable, the 
grounds should be cleared, and planted with the most useful 
vegetables. But nothing appeared to him more important, 
than to give attention to works of defence. Still he had no 
apprehension of the imminent peril to which the colony, in a 
short time, would be exposed. 

But as Mr. Ashmun himself has written the history of the 
interesting and eventful period, which now follows, it is but 
just that he be permitted to speak in his own language. 

"So early as the ISth of August, the present martello tower 
was planned; a company of labourers, employed by the agent 
in clearing the ground on which it stands, and a particular 
survey taken of the military strength and means of the settlers. 
Of the native Americans, twenty-seven, when not sick, were 
able to bear arms ; but they were wholly untrained to their 
use ; and capable in their present undisciplined state of making 
but a very feeble defence indeed. There were forty muskets 
in store, which, with repairing, were capable of being rendered 
serviceable. Of five iron guns and one brass attached to the 
settlement, the last only was fit for service, and four of the 
former required carriages. Several of these were nearly buried 
in the mud, on the opposite side of the river. Not a yard of 
abatis, or other fence-work, had been constructed. There was 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 181 

no fixed ammunition, nov, without great difficulty and delay, 
was it possible to load the only gun which was provided with 
a sufficient carriage. 

"It was soon perceived that the means, as well as an organ- 
ized system of defence, were to be originated, without either 
the materials or the artificers usually considered necessary for 
such purposes. In the organization of the men, thirteen Afri- 
can youths attached to the United States' Agency, most of 
whom had never loaded a musket, were enrolled in the Lieu- 
tenant's corps, and daily exercised in the use of arms. The 
guns were, one after another, whh infinite labour, transported 
over the river, conveyed to the height of the peninsula, and 
mounted on rough truck carriages, which in the event proved 
to answer a very good purpose. A master of ordnance was 
appointed, who, with his assistants, repaired the small arms — 
made up a quantity of fixed ammunition, and otherwise aided 
in arranging the details of the service. 

" The little town was closely environed, except on the side 
of the river, with the heavy forest in the bosom of which it 
was situated — thus giving to a savage enemy an important 
advantage, of which it became absolutely necessary to deprive 
him, by enlarging to the utmost, the cleared space about the 
buildings. This labour was immediately undertaken, and car- 
ried on without any other intermission, than that caused by 
sickness of the people, and the interruption of other duties 
equally connected with the safety of the place. But the rains 
were immoderate and nearly constant. 

" In addition to these fatiguing labours, was that of main- 
taining the nightly watch; which, from the number of senti- 
nels necessary for the common safety, shortly became more 
exhausting than all the other burdens of the people. No less 
than twenty individuals were every night detailed for this 
duty, after the 31st of August."* 

* " On this day, the strength of the colony was thus organized, and the accom- 
panying orders issued : 

1. The settlement is under military law. 

2. E. Johnson is Commissary of Stores. 

3. R. Sampson is Commissary of Ordnance. 

4. L. Carey, Health Officer and Government Inspector. 

5. F. James, Captain of brass mounted field-piece ; and has assigned to his 
command, R. Newport, M. S. Draper, William Meade, and J. Adams. 

16 



182 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

" On the 25th of August, Mr. Ashmun experienced the first 
attack of fever; and on the next day his wife was seized. Sick- 
ness also prevailed among the recent emigrants; so that on the 
10th of September, only two, of the whole number, remained in 
health. For four weeks the agent struggled with his disease. 
In the morning, after a night of delirium and suffering, he 
would be for hours employed in laying off and directing the 
execution of the public works. 

" About the first of September, the intercourse between the 
settlement and the people of the country, had nearly ceased, 
and the native youths who had been residing in the colony, 
were daily deserting in consequence of recent intelligence con- 
veyed to them by their friends. 

" The plan of defence adopted was to station five heavy 
guns at the different angles of a triangle which should circum- 
scribe the whole settlement — each of the angles resting on a 
point of ground sufficiently commanding to enfilade two sides 
of the triangle, and sweep a considerable extent of ground 
beyond the lines. The guns at these stations were to be 
covered by musket-proof triangular stockades, of which any 
two should be sufficient to contain all the settlers in their 
wings. The brass piece and two swivels mounted on travel- 
ling carriages, were stationed in the centre, ready to support 

6. A. James, Captain of Long 18; and under his command, J. Benson, E. 
Smith, William Hollinger, D. Hawkins, John and Thomas Spencer, v 

7. J. Shaw, Captain of the Southern Picket Station, mounting two iron guns. 
To'^his command are attached S. Campbell, E. Jackson, J. Lawrence, L. Crook, 
and George Washington. 

8. D. George, Captain of Eastern Picket Station, mounting two iron guns; 
attached are A. Edmondson, Joseph Gardiner, Josh. Webster, and J. Carey. 

9. C. Brander, Captain of a Carriage mounting two swivels, to act in concert 
with the brass piece, and move from station to station, as the occasion may re- 
quire ; attached are T. Tines, and L. Butler. 

10. Every man is to have his musket and ammunition with him even when at 
the large guns. 

11. Every officer is responsible for the conduct of the men placed under him, 
who are to obey him at their peril, 

12. The guns are all to be got ready for action immediately — and every effec- 
tive man is to be employed on the Pickets, 

13. Five stations to be occupied by guards at night, till other orders shall be 
given, 

14. No useless firing permitted, 

15. In case of an alarm, every man is to repair instantly to his post and do his 
duty." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATIOX. 183 

the post which might be exposed to the heaviest attack. After 
completing these detached works, it was the intention of the 
agent, had the enemy allowed the time, to join all together by 
a paling to be carried quite around the settlement; and in the 
event of a yet longer respite, to carry on, as rapidly as possible, 
under the protection of the nearest fortified point, the construc- 
tion of the martello tower; which, as soon as completed, 
would nearly supersede all the other works; and by presenting 
an impregnable barrier to the success of any native force, pro- 
bably become the instrument of a general and permanent paci- 
fication. Connected with these measures of safety, was the 
extension to the utmost, of the cleared space about the settle- 
ment, still leaving the trees and brushwood, after being sepa- 
rated from their trunks, to spread the ground with a tangled 
hedge, through which nothing should be able to make its way, 
except the shot from the batteries. 

" This plan was fully communicated to the most intelligent 
of the people; which, in the event of the disability or death of 
the agent, they might, it was hoped, so far carry into effect as 
to ensure the preservation of the settlement." 

" On the sixth of September, the agent convened the people, 
read to them the instructions of the Board, and published such 
laws, by-laws and regulations as he deemed essential to the 
public welfare. ' Taken together,' he remarks, ' they comprise 
all the special written laws which exist in the settlement.' In 
addition to sundry explanations touching the particular laws, 
he offered on the occasion several remarks, in substance, as 
follows : 

"'That the government of the colony ought to be a govern- 
ment of reason, religion, and law, and not that of a master 
over his refractory servants; that the agent should comply with 
the instructions of the society, consult the interest of the colony, 
and abide strictly by the sense of the constitution as far as he 
imderstood them in all the regulations he should establish; 
that he intended to represent the society as if present; that no 
more nor more rigid laws should be passed than were judged 
necessary; and that laws once passed, it need not be said, must 
be obeyed, or the penalty suffered ; that he sincerely devoted 
himself, while Divine Providence should continue him in his 
present situation, to the welfare of the settlement. And his 
first wish was to see it prosperous. He sympathized with not 



184 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

a few present, who liad encountered and sustained dangers and 
hardships of a trying nature. It was the wisli of the society, 
it was his wish to see them as soon as possible, rewarded for 
all their sufferings, by a home abounding with peace and all 
the comforts of this life, and the best means of preparing for 
one infinitely better. He had the satisfaction to regard himself 
as the personal friend of many present, and hoped these feel- 
ings would be interrupted by no fault or indiscretion on either 
part.' 

" On the 12th of September, the agc^nt wrote the following 
sentences in the Colonial Journal. 

" ' Rain falls in floods. The sick all seem better except Mrs. 
Ashmun. She is speechless, and almost without the use of her 
reason. There is no rational hope of her recovery. All reme- 
dies on which her husband dares to venture, have been tried 
in vain. He now with a burdened heart, resigns her up to her 
God, and scarcely able to support himself, painfully watches 
over what he considers the last hours of her mortal existence. 
When last possessed of the power of reflection, she declared 
herself happy in her God — and to possess not a wish which 
was not absorbed in His holy will. The reading of the Scrip- 
tures seemed perceptibly to feed and revive her faith in the 
precious Redeemer. She seemed to have intercourse with God 
in prayer. Her husband may follow her in a few days, or 
weeks at most; and he here ventures to record it as the first 
wish of his heart, that the will of the Lord may be done.' 

" Mr. Ashmun strove manfully against the power of his dis- 
ease, and the tide of distressing thoughts which rushed upon 
him as he beheld his wife, ' a female of most delicate constitu- 
tion, lying under the influence of a mortal fever, in the corner 
of a miserable hut, (to ventilate which in a proper manner was 
impossible,) on a couch literally dripping with water, which a 
roof of thatch was unable to exclude— circumstances rendering 
recovery impossible, and in which even the dying struggle 
almost brought relief to the agonized feelings of surviving 
friendship.'* She expired on Sunday the 15th of September. 
' Her life,' observes he who knew her best, ' had been that of 
uncommon devotion and self-denial, inspired by a vigorous and 
practical faith in the Divine Saviour of the world; and her end, 

* Mr. Ashmun's Letter to Captain Spence. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 185 

according to his promise, was ineffable peace,' To this, we 
add, that in the recollections of her friends, are the impressions 
still vivid of her zeal and charity in behalf of the neglected and 
ignorant of this, and the wretched heathens of other lands; and 
how, from early youth, it had been her chief desire, that it 
might be her work and honour, to guide the untaught children 
of some uncivilized regions to the God of her hope and sal- 
vation. 

" It was a kind dispensation of Providence, that the agent 
was spared to make the most important arrangements for the 
defence of the settlement, before the hand of disease rendered 
him entirely incapable of exertion. From the middle of Sep- 
tember, until the first week of November, he remained in an 
extremely low and dangerous state, nearly incapable of motion, 
and conscious of little but suffering. As soon as the force of 
his disease was somewhat abated, he discovered that much had 
been effected by the industry of the people; that on the whole 
southern quarter of the settlement, the trees had been cleared 
away, and so thrown together, as in a good measure to ob- 
struct the approach of an enemy. Their routine of daily 
labour and nightly watching, however, had been such as to 
forbid their completing the preparations; the western station 
was still uncovered; and the long gun, intended for its chief 
defence, unmounted. On the 7th of November, the agent was 
able to ' recommence entries in the Journal, and thereafter daily 
to take an increasing share in the operations of the people.' 

" In the mean time, the kings and head-men of the country 
had held secret meetings to discuss and decide upon measures 
of hostility to the colony. By the diligence and fidelity of an 
individual whose name has not been divulged, the agent •' was 
informed of the sentiments of each, and often furnished with 
the very arguments used in their debates.' Some diversity of 
opinion existed in the war-council. Two or three of the chiefs 
were opposed to the war, but a large majority, not fewer than 
nine or ten, resolved to unite their forces and make an early 
attack upon the settlement. The agent, through one of their 
number who was undecided on his course, informed them 'that 
he was perfectly apprised of their hostile deliberations, not- 
withstanding their pains to conceal them; and that if they pro- 
ceeded to bring war upon the Americans, without even asking 
16* 



186 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to settle their difterences in a friendly manner, they would 
dearly learn what it was to fight white men.'* 

" On the 7th of November," says Mr. Ashmun, " intelligence 
was received at the Cape that the last measures had been taken 
preparatory to an assault on the settlement, which was ordered 
within four days. The plan of attack being left to the head 
warriors, whose trade it is to concert and conduct it, was not 
to be learnt. 

"The agent was able, with assistance, to inspect the works, 
and review the little force the same evening. He stated to 
the people the purport of the intelligence just received; that 
* war was now inevitable; and the preservation of their pro- 
perty, their settlement, their famiUes, and their lives, depended 
under God, wholly upon their own firmness and good conduct; 
that a most important point in the defence of the place, was to 
secure a perfect uniformity of action, which should assure to 
every post and individual the firm support of every other. To 
this end, they must as punctiliously obey their officers as if their 
whole duty were centered, as it probably was, in that one point; 
and every man as faithfully exert himself, as if the whole de- 
fence depended on his single efforts. A coward, it was hoped, 
did not disgrace their ranks; and as the cause was emphatically 
that of God and their country, they might confidently expect 
his blessing and success to attend the faithfal discharge of their 
duty.' — Every thing was then disposed in order of action, and 
the men marched to their posts. They lay on their arms, with 
matches lighted, through the night. 

" On the 8th the agent, by an effort which entirely exhausted 
his strength, proceeded to examine the obstruction thrown in 
the way of the avenues to the settlement; and perceived to 
his extreme mortification, that the west quarter was still capa- 
ble of being approached by a narrow path-way, without diffi- 
culty; and that the utmost exertions of the workmen had 
accomplished only the mounting of the revolving nine pounder 
at the post; by which the path was enfiladed; but that the 
platform was still left entirely exposed. The eastern quarter 
was about equally opened to the approach of the enemy, but 

* A phrase by which civilized people of all colours and nations, are distin- 
guished in the dialect of the coast. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 187 

the station was protected by a stockade, and a steep ledge ot 
rocks made the access difficult. 

" Picket-guards of four men each were detailed, to be posted 
one hundred yards in advance of each of the stations, through 
the night. No man was allowed to sleep before the following 
day, at sun-rise; and patrols of native Africans were dispersed 
through the woods in every direction. An order was given to 
families occupying the most exposed houses, to sleep in such 
as were more centrally situated.* 

" Throughout the 9th, the order established on the preceding 
day continued; and some progress was made in the labour of 
falling trees, and otherwise obstructing every practicable ac- 
cess to the settlement. 

" Sunday, November 10th. The morning was devoted, as 
usual, to the refreshment of the settlers, none of whom had 
slept for the twenty-four hours preceding. At 1 P. M. all were 
remanded to their fatigue and other duties, till sun-set; when 
the order appointed for the preceding night was resumed. The 
women and children attended divine service. 

" Intelligence had reached the agent early in the day, that 
the hostile forces had made a movement, and were crossing the 
Mesurado river a few miles above the settlement; but the 
patrols made no discovery through the day. At sun-set, how- 
ever, the enemy again put themselves in motion, and at an 
early hour of the night, had assembled, as was afterwards 
learnt, to the number of six to nine hundred men, on the 
peninsula, where, at the distance of less than half a mile to the 
westward of the settlement, they encamped till near morning. 
Their camp, afterwards examined, extended half a mile in 
length, and induces a strong probability that the number of 
warriors assembled on this occasion, has been altogether under- 
rated. t 

" The most wakeful vigilance on the part of the settlers, was 

* In tlie multitude of cares devolving on the agent, who dictated most of his 
instructions from his bed, the measures necessary to secure the proper observance 
of this order were unhappily omitted ; and the rashness of the misguided indi- 
viduals who disobeyed it, met with a signal punishment. 

t The number given above, is deduced from the discordant accounts given by 
the kings of the country, after the termination of hostilities; some of whom rated 
it much higher; but all were ignorant of the true number, and all were interested 
to state it as low as would obtain credit. 



188 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

kept up through the night.— But, with a fatahty which was 
quite of a piece with all the hindrances that had impeded the 
progress of the defences on the western quarter, the picket- 
guard in advance of that post, ventured on a violation of their 
orders, by leaving their station at the first dawn of day; at 
which it was their duty to remain till sun-rise. The native 
force was already in motion, and followed directly in the rear 
of the picket-guard. The latter had just rejoined their gun, 
about which ten men were now assembled ; when the enemy 
suddenly presented a front of ten yards in width, at sixty distant, 
delivered their fire, and rushed forward with their spears to seize 
the post. Several men were killed and disabled by the first fire, 
and the remainder driven from their gun without discharging it. 
These, retiring upon the centre, threw the reserve there stationed 
into momentary confusion; and had the enemy at this instant 
pressed their advantage, it is hardly conceivable that they 
should have failed of entire success. Their avidity for plunder 
was their defeat. Four houses in that outskirt of the settle- 
ment, had fallen into their hands. Every man on whose 
savage rapacity so resistless a temptation happened to operate, 
rushed impetuously upon the pillage thus thrown in his way. 
The movement of the main body was disordered and impeded; 
and an opportunity afforded the agent, assisted principally by 
the Rev. Lot Gary, to rally the broken force of the settlers. The 
two central guns, with a part of their own men, and several 
who had been driven from the western station, were, with 
a little exertion, brought back into action, and formed in 
the line of two slight buildings, thirty yards in advance of the 
enemy. 

" The second discharge of a brass field-piece, double-shotted 
with ball and grape, brought the whole body of the enemy to 
a stand. That gun was well served, and appeared to do great 
execution. The havoc would have been greater, had not the 
fire, from motives of humanity, been so directed as to clear the 
dwellings about which the enemy's force was gathered in 
heavy masses. These houses were known at that moment to 
contain more than twelve helpless women and children. 

" The eastern and southern posts, were, from their situation, 
precluded from rendering any active assistance on the occasion ; 
but the officers and men attached to them, deserve the highest 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 189 

praise, of doing their duty by maintaining their stations, and 
thus protecting the flank and rear of the few whose lot it was 
to be brought to action. 

" A few musketeers, with E. Johnson at their head, by pass- 
ing round upon the enemy's flank, served to increase the con- 
sternation which was beginning to pervade their unwieldy 
body. In about twenty minutes after the settlers had taken 
their stand, the front of the enemy began to recoil. But the 
numerous obstructions in their rear, the entire absence of dis- 
cipline, and the extreme difficulty of giving a reversed mo- 
tion to so large a body, a small part only of which was directly 
exposed to danger, and the delay occasioned by the practice of 
carrying off" all their dead and wounded, rendered a retreat for 
some minutes longer, impossible. The very violence employed 
by those in the front, in their impatience to hasten it, by in- 
creasing the confusion, produced an eff'ect opposite to that in- 
tended. The Americans perceiving their advantage, now 
regained possession of the western post, and instantly brought 
the long nine to rake the whole line of the enemy. Imagina- 
tion can scarcely figure to itself a throng of human beings in 
a more capital state of exposure to the destructive power of 
the machinery of modern warfare ! Eight hundred men were 
here pressed shoulder to shoulder, in so compact a form that a 
child might easily walk upon their heads from one end of the 
mass to the other, presenting in their rear a breadth of rank 
equal to twenty or thirty men, and all exposed to a gun of great 
power, raised on a platform, at only thirty to sixty yards distance ! 
Every shot literally spent its force in a solid mass of living hu- 
man flesh ! Their fire suddenly terminated. A savage yell was 
raised, which filled the dismal forest with a momentary horror. 
It gradually died away, and the whole host disappeared. At 
eight o'clock the well known signal of their dispersion and 
return to their homes, was sounded, and many small parties 
seen at a distance, directly afterwards, moving off" in different 
directions. One large canoe employed in reconveying a party 
across the mouth of the Mesurado, venturing within the range 
of the long gun, was struck by a shot, and several men 
killed. 

" On the part of the settlers, it was soon discovered that con- 
siderable injury had been sustained. 



190 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

" One woman* who had imprudently passed the night in the 
honse first beset by the enemy, had received thirteen wounds, 
and been thrown aside as dead. Another,! flying from her 
house with her two infant children, received a wound in the 
head, from a cutlass, and was robbed of both her babes; but 
providentially escaped, A young married woman,t with the 
mother of five small children, finding the house in which they 
slept surrounded by savage enemies, barricadoed the door, in 
the vain hope of safety. It was forced. Each of the women 
then seizing an axe, held the irresolute barbarians in check for 
several minutes longer. Having discharged their guns, they 
seemed desirous of gaining the shelter of the house previous to 
reloading. — At length, with the aid of their spears, and by 
means of a general rush, they overcame their heroine adversa- 
ries, and instantly stabbed the youngest to the heart. The 
mother, instinctively springing for her suckling babe, which 
recoiled through fright, and was left behind, rushed through a 
small window on the opposite side of the house, and providen- 
tially escaped to the lines, unhurt, between two heavy fires. 

" The agent had caused a return to be made at 9 o'clock, 
which certainly exhibited a melancholy statement of the loss 
sustained by the Httle company. But it was animating to per- 
ceive that none, not even the wounded in their severest suffer- 
ings, were dispirited, or insensible of the signal providence to 
which they owed the successful issue of their struggle. 

"It has never been possible to ascertain the number of the 
enemy killed or disabled on this occasion. The only entry 
made on the subject in the Colonial Journal, is dated Novem- 
ber 15th; and states, 'The following circumstances prove the 
carnage to have been, for the number engaged, great. A large 
canoe, from which the dead and wounded could be seen to be 
taken, on its arriving at the opposite side of the Mesurado, 
and which might easily carry twelve men, was employed up- 
wards of two hours in ferrying them over. In this time, not 
less than ten or twelve trips must have been made. It is also 
known, that many of the wounded were conveyed away along 
the south beach, on mats; and that the dead, left of necessity 

* Mrs. Ann Hawkins ; who after long and incredible sufferings recovered, and 
is yet living. 

t Mrs. Minty Draper. t Mary Tines. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 191 

in the woods, where many fell, are carried off by their friends 
every night. But two days ago, twenty-seven bodies were 
discovered by a party of friendly Condoes employed by the 
agent for the purpose. On entering the wood, the offensive 
effluvium from putrid bodies, is at this time intolerable.' 

" The numerical force of the settlers amounted to thirty-five 
persons, including six native youths not sixteen years of age. 
Of this number, about one half were engaged. 

" At nine o'clock, the agent, after advising with the most 
sensible mechanics, and others of the settlers, issued an order 
for contracting the lines, by excluding about one-fourth part of 
the houses, and surrounding the remainder, including the stores, 
with a musket-proof stockade; at the angles of which, all the 
guns were to be posted. The fence palings and building ma- 
terials of individuals, were taken for this palisade, of which, 
before night, more than eighty yards were completed. 

" This work was resumed early the next day, and far ad- 
vanced towards a completion, before it was judged safe to 
devote an hour even to the melancholy duty of burying the 
dead; which was performed on the evening of the 12th. By 
contracting the lines, the number of men necessary to guard 
them, was considerably reduced ; and thus a relief for the peo- 
ple obtained, which their sickly and feeble state absolutely 
called for. As early as the 14th, one-half of their number were 
released from camp duty, after eight o'clock in the morning; 
but every man remanded to his post through the night. An 
additional gun was mounted and posted on the same day: on 
the 17th, the artillerists were newly organized; and every day 
witnessed either some improvements in the discipline of the 
men, or in the means of defence and annoyance. 

" It could not fail, in the state of utter abandonment and soli- 
tude to which this little company was reduced, to be felt as an 
encouraging circumstance, that Tom Bassa, a prince of some 
distinction, should, at this moment, have sent a message to 
assure the colony of his friendship; and in testimony of his 
sincerity, to have forwarded a small present of the productions 
of the country. 

"The enclosure was completed on Sunday morning, the 
17th; when about one-half of the people had the privilege of 
celebrating divine service — a privilege which many of them 
very highly appreciated. 



192 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

"It is not to be either concealed, or made the subject of a too 
severe censure, that several of the people should have yielded, 
as soon as leisure was afforded for reflection, to the discourag- 
ing circumstances of their situation. There were not at this 
time, exclusive of rice, fifteen days' provisions in store. Every 
individual was subjected to an allowance which could not sus- 
tain animal strength, under the burden of so many severe and 
extraordinary labours. Nothing could be obtained from the 
country. Seven infant children were in the hands of an enemy 
infuriated by his recent losses. The native forces were cer- 
tainly not dispersed; but it was no longer in the agent's power 
either to learn the intention of the chiefs, or to convey any 
message through to them. Add to these unpleasant ingredients 
of their lot, the more cruel circumstance, perhaps of all, that 
the ammunition of the colony was insufficient for a single 
hour's defence of the place if hotly attacked, and an apology 
may surely be found for the very alarming despondency which 
was invading the minds of several of the settlers. It was a 
happy providence that, at this critical moment, the agent's 
health was so far mended, as to put it in his power often to 
attend the men, at their posts and labours, by night and day — 
to animate them by every method which his invention could 
suggest — and when these failed, to draw from their despair 
itself, an argument for a faithful discharge of their duty. In 
this difficult labour, he was ably and successfully supported by 
several of the most sensible and influential of the colonists. 

"An earnest, but ineffectual effort was now made to engage 
the kings in a treaty of peace. The state of the settlement, as 
well as motives of humanity, urged that no proper means 
should be neglected of bringing the war to a termination. 

" The enemy was assured ' that the Americans came with 
friendly intentions; that they had evinced those friendly inten- 
tions in all their intercourse with the people of the country; 
that they were willing to settle a peace, but were also prepared 
to carry on the war, and render it immensely more destructive 
than it had yet been found to their foes.' — But though mes- 
sages were daily exchanged with the chiefs for a time, and 
though they professed a pacific disposition, it was known that 
they were earnestly engaged in securing allies from all quar- 
ters, and the agent made diligent preparations for a second 
attack. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 193 

"'The 23d of November was devoted to humiliation thanks- 
giving, and prayer, both on account of the recent success, and 
losses, and the actual perilous state of the settlement. Two 
days afterwards, the most pressing wants of the people were 
relieved by a small purchase from a transient trader touching 
at the Cape,' 

"A generous foreigner, Captain H. Brassey, of Liverpool, 
arrived on the 29th, ' and nearly exhausted his own stores to 
relieve the distresses of the sick and wounded, and exerted an 
extensive influence, acquired by long acquaintance with the 
chiefs, to disarm their hostilities.' But in vain. ' It was ascer- 
tained to be their purpose to renew that very night, with a 
large reinforcement, their eff"orts to destroy the settlement. 
The presence of Captain Brassey's large ship in the harbour, 
induced them to defer the attack.' 

" In a letter dated November 30, addressed to the Board, Mr. 
Ashmun writes: 'All the tribes around us are combined in 
war against us. Their principal object is plunder. We are 
surrounded only with a slight barricade, and can only raise a 
force of thirty men; have not time, limits, nor the means to 
erect an effectual and permanent fortification, nor any means 
except what casually offers of sending to Sierra Leone for aid. 
We endeavour to make God our trust. I have no idea but to 
wait here for His deliverance— or to lay our bones on Cape 
Mesurado.' After many suggestions in regard to supplies 
by future expeditions, he concludes: 'Dear sir, pray for us 
fervently, that if living, God Almighty would be with us.' 

" Mr. Ashmun thus describes the contest on the morning of 
the 2d of December: 

"'The agent, for the first time, spent the whole night (29th) 
at the different posts ; and had the satisfaction to perceive every 
man attentive to his duty, and every thing connected with the 
defence in a state of the most perfect preparation. The wood 
had been cleared for a considerable space about the town. The 
enemy in order to approach within musket shot of the works, 
was obliged to place himself unsheltered, in the open field ; 
and could advance upon no point which was not exposed to 
the cross-fire of two or more of the posts. The stockade, for a 
distance on each side of all the several stations, was rendered 
impenetrable to musket shot ; and in every part afforded a 
shelter, behind which the defenders might indulge the confi- 
17 



194 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

dence of being nearly secure — a point of the very first import- 
ance to be secured to the unpractised soldier. 

" « November 30th was spent by the people in the order of 
action, as it was known that the enemy in the neighbourhood 
were in the actual observation of all that passed within the 
lines. No pickets could be safely trusted during the ensuing 
night, without the enclosure ; but the men attached to the dif- 
ferent stations were ranged along the stockade at five yards' 
distance from each other, with orders to repan- to their guns ou 
the moment the alarm was given. The agent, spent with the 
fatigue of waking two successive nights, had reclined at thirty 
minutes past four, the 2d inst., upon, the light arms which he 
carried, when the onset was made. The works were attacked 
at the same moment on nearly opposite sides. The enemy's 
western division had made their way along the muddy margin 
of the river, under the protection of the bank, to the north- 
western angle of the palisade; when, on rising the bank so as 
to become visible from the western post, they had opened upon 
it a sudden and brisk fire, which was promptly and very 
steadily returned by the iron gun, supported by the reserve 
field-piece from the centre. The assailants were repulsed with 
considerable loss. Ten minutes afterwards they renewed the 
onset, and forcing their way higher up the bank than before, 
contended with great obstinacy, and suffered still more severely. 
A third attempt was made to carry this post, but witli the same 
ill success. 

" ' On the opposite quarter the assault had commenced at the 
same moment, with still greater vigour. A large body had 
concealed themselves under a precipitous ledge of rocks forty 
yards distant: whence they crept nearly concealed from view, 
within the same number of feet of the station ; when they sud- 
denly rose, delivered their fire, and rushed forward with the 
utmost fury. At this moment, the two-gun battery was un- 
masked, and opened upon them with immediate effect. After 
a very few discharges, the body of the enemy having thrown 
themselves flat upon the earth, disappeared behind the rocks. 
Their marksmen had taken their stations behind projecting 
rocks, fallen trees, and large ant-hills, and still kept up a con- 
stant and well directed fire; under the cover of which the main 
body rallied and returned to the attack not less than four times, 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 195 

and were as often repulsed by the well directed fire of the large 
guns, which were purposely reserved for those occasions. 

" ' The agent, at this moment, perceiving the enemy in motion 
towards the right, under cover of a small eminence which 
favoured their design, proceeded to the southern post, which 
had not yet been engaged, and ordered it to open upon them 
the moment their movement brought them within the range of 
its guns. The order was punctually obeyed; which exposed a 
large number of the assailants to a galling cannonade both in 
front and flank, in a situation where their own arms could 
prove of no effectual service to them. The assault on the op- 
posite side of the town had been already repulsed ; and the 
signal for a general retreat immediately followed. This order 
was obeyed with such promptitude, that the most entire silence 
succeeded, and every warrior disappeared almost instanta- 
neously. 

" 'Not the most veteran troops could have behaved with more 
coolness, or shown greater firmness than the settlers, on this 
occasion. Such had been their hardships, and distressing sus- 
pense for the last twenty days, that the first volley of the 
enemy's fire brought sensible relief to every breast; for it gave 
assurance that the time had arrived which was to put a period 
to their anxieties. 

" « The final repulse of the assailants on the western quarter, 
took place in seventy minutes from the commencement of the 
contest; the attack upon the eastern post, was prolonged ninety 
minutes ; and of the two, was much the most obstinate and 
bloody. Three of the men serving at the guns of that station, 
Gardiner, Crook, and Tines, were very badly, the last mortally, 
wounded. The agent received three bullets through his clothes, 
but providentially escaped unhurt. As the natives in close 
action load their muskets (which are of the largest calibre) 
with copper and iron slugs, often to the enormous measure of 
twelve inches, their fire is commonly very destructive. In this 
conflict of scarcely an hour and a half, the quantity of shot 
lodged in the paling, and actually thrown within the lines, is 
ahogether incredible ; and that it took effect in so few cases, 
can only be regarded as the effect of the special guardianship 
of Divine Providence. 

" ' The number of assailants has been variously estimated, 
but can never be correctly ascertained. It is known to be 



196 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

much greater than of those engaged on the 11th. Their loss, 
although from the quantity of blood with which the field was 
found drenched, certainly considerable, was much less than in 
the former attack. 

" ' The agent has often said that their plan of assault was the 
very best that they could have devised. It was certainly sus- 
tained and renewed with a resolution that would not disgrace 
the best discipUned troops. But they were not fully apprised 
of the power of well served artillery. None of the kings of 
this part of the coast are without cannon. But to load a great 
gun, is with them the business of half an hour; and they were 
seriously disposed to attribute to sorcery the art of charging 
and firing these destructive machines from four to six times in 
the minute.' 

" The result of this action disheartened the foe, and animated 
for a moment, the hopes of the colonists. But the situation of 
the latter, was most distressing. The small number still more 
reduced — no aid near — provisions scanty, so that for six weeks 
they had been on an allowance of meat and bread; the suffer- 
ings of the wounded, relieved by little surgical knowledge, less 
skill, and no proper instruments, indescribable; and on an equal 
distribution of the shot among the guns, not three rounds 
remaining to each! 'We cried unto God,' says Mr. Ashmun, 
(in his letter to the Board of the 7th of December,) ' to send us 
aid, or prepare us, and the society at home, for the heaviest 
earthly calamity we could dread.' 

" On the following night, an officer at one of the stations, 
alarmed by some movement in the vicinity, discharged several 
muskets and large guns, and this circumstance was providen- 
tially the means of bringing relief to the almost despairing 
settlement. 

" The British colonial schooner, Prince Regent, laden with 
military stores, and having on board Major Laing, the cele- 
brated African traveller, with a prize crew commanded by 
Midshipman Gordon, and eleven seamen of his Britannic Ma- 
jesty's sloop of war Driver, was at this time passing the Cape 
on her way to Cape Coast Castle, when her officers, arrested by 
the sound of cannon at midnight from the shore, resolved to 
ascertain the cause of so extraordinary a circumstance. No 
sooner did they learn the truth, and beliold a little company of 
brave men contending for their lives against the leagued forces 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 197 

of nearly every barbarous tribe on that part of the coast, than 
they generously offered all the aid in their power. By the 
influence of Captain Laing, the chiefs were bound to a truce, 
and to refer all matters of diff"erence between them and the 
colony, to the judgment of the Governor of Sierra Leone; 
Avhile Midshipman Gordon, with eleven seamen, voluntarily 
consented to remain, and see that the agreement was preserved 
inviolate. As the chiefs had no just grounds of complaint, the 
provision for a reference was never afterwards recollected. 
The Prince Regent left at the colony a supply of ammunition, 
and took her departure on the 4th of December. From that 
liour the foundations of the colony were laid in a firm and last- 
ing PEACE. 

" And who was he, that ' single white man,' on that distant 
forest-clad shore, unbroken in spirit, though bowed beneath the 
heavy hand of sorrow and sickness, casting fear to the winds, 
directing and heading by day and night, a feeble, undisciplined, 
dejected, unfortified band of thirty-five emigrants, against whom 
the very elements seemed warring, while a thousand to fif- 
teen hundred armed savages were rushing to destroy them ? 
Who was he, that in reliance on God for wisdom and might, 
imparted such skill and courage to this little company, — so 
ordered every plan and guided every movement, that the fierce 
foe retired panic-struck before them, and they stood rescued 
and redeemed from impending destruction? 

" Was he a veteran soldier, inured to danger, familiar with 
suffering, and bred amid scenes of battle and blood? Was he 
there adorned by badges of military honour, conscious of a 
reputation won by deeds of ' high emprise,' and stimulated to 
valour by hopes of glory and fears of disgrace? 

" That was no tried, no ambitious soldier. He was a young 
man bred to letters, of retired habits, educated for the ministry 
of Christ, unknown to fame, — the victim of disappointment, 
burdened with debt, and touched by undeserved reproach. 
He had visited Africa in hope of obtaining the means of doing 
justice to his creditors; and impelled by humanity and religion, 
had consented, without any fixed compensation, to give, should 
they be required, his services to the colony. He found it in 
peril of extinction. He hesitated not. He failed not to redeem 
his pledge. He gathered strength from difficulty, and motive 
from danger. No thronging and admiring spectators cheered 
17* 



198 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

him; no glorious pomp and circumstance were there to throw 
a brightness and a beauty even upon the features and terrors 
of death. He stood strong in duty, covered by the shield of 
faith. His frame shaken by disease; the partner of his life 
struck down by his side; amid the groans of the afflicted and 
in the shadow of hope's dim eclipse, he planned and executed, 
with the ability of the bravest and most experienced general, 
measures which saved the settlement, and secured for liberty 
and Christianity, a perpetual home and heritage in Africa. 
Raised up and guided by an Almighty, though invisible hand, 
to build a city of righteousness on that shore of oppression, 
before which the makers of idols should be confounded, and 
those in chains come over* to fall down in worship, and exclaim 
as they beheld her light, " surely God is in thee," no weapon 
formed against him could prosper, no wasting destruction by 
day, or pestilence walking in darkness, had power to defeat 
the work."t 



CHAPTER XIII. 

THE COLONY UNDER MR. ASHMUN. 

The Prince Regent, which had arrived so opportunely at the 
(jape, and to whose captain, officers, and crew, the colonists 
were so much indebted for their aid and protection, when she 
departed from the Cape, left midshipman Gordon, as we have 
seen, and eleven seamen, as a kind of guard for the colonists, 
and to see that the agreement into which the chiefs had entered 
was fulfilled. But these generous Englishmen had scarcely 
set foot on the African shore, to assist the feeble colony, when 
they were swept away by the fell malaria of this climate, so 
unfriendly to the constitution of white men. 

The funeral of midshipman Gordon was attended by nearly 
all the colonists, and by the officers of several vessels who hap- 
pened to be in port. Mr. Ashmun announced the melancholy 
event to Lieutenant Rotheray of the British navy, in a letter of 

» Isaiah xlv. 14, 16. t Gurley's Life of Ashmun. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 199 

cordial gratitude for the services secured, and tender sympathy 
for the loss of so promising a young man. 

Important services were also rendered to the infant colony 
by the officers and crew of a Colombian armed schooner, which 
arrived on the 4th of December, 1S22, and remained four weeks 
at the colony. Her mechanics assisted in putting the settle- 
ment into a better state of defence. 

Mr. Ashmun's health continued to be poor; it was evidently 
injured by excessive exertion; so that it was not until Feb- 
ruary that he was again capable of active service. He felt 
that much was requisite to be done before the ramy season. 
Besides the public store, there was but one shingled roof in the 
settlement. Many of the cabins were without floors, covered 
with thatch, and afforded a very imperfect shelter. The war had 
occupied the attention of all the colonists for several months, 
and deranged all their habits of industry and economy. Pro- 
visions began also to run low, and every prospect was gloomy 
rather than cheering. But the stout-hearted agent was not easily- 
discouraged : as he stood firm in the midst of his little band, when 
assailed by fifty times the number of his own men, and came 
off victorious, so now, when disease and famine threatened the 
little lonely colony, he still put his trust in God. In a letter to 
the Board he says: — "Our last barrel of salted provisions, is to 
be opened on next Saturday. But we do not complain. God 
lias not, and will not fail to be our Provider. I have only to 
regret that the war has put back our improvements nearly a 
whole year." And again, to the secretary of the society, he 
says: "Divine Providence has, since my last, been gradually 
dispersing the clouds which then hung over us. We have 
opened a trade with a wealthy tribe in the interior for bullocks. 
They cost fifteen bars each.* Our people begin to breathe 
freely. We still keep up a strict watch at night, but are able 
with safety to reduce it, so as to make it very little burden- 
some to the colonists. Our wounded, though unable to labour, 
are once more moving about with their crutches, and their 
slings, and we have just begun to build and repair the houses 
in which ourselves, and the fresh emigrants, (if any arrive,) are 
to spend the rains. Finally, the progress of the colony is now 
forwards, and not as it has been for months past, retrograde. 
My health is nearly restored. I stand a monument of God's 

* About eight dollars. 



200 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

mercy; and behold the graves of fifteen white persons around 
me, all of whom have died since I landed on the Cape. Help 
me to praise the Lord, and pray, fervently pray, that I may 
spend a life thus astonishingly preserved, in some humble way 
of usefulness to his blessed cause in Africa and in the world."* 

On the 5th of March 1823, Mr. Ashmun wrote, "We have 
all our captives back again. The kings met and agreed to send 
them without any demand. It was, however, expected that 
we would make them a present. This I did. The little things 
were all very much uncivilized. Some had forgotten the Eng- 
lish language; some had forgotten their own parents; others 
had actually gone wild, and to avoid their friends, would scud 
like fawns into the bushes." 

The American ship of war Cyane having arrived on the 
African coast, Captain Robert Trail Spence, though his health 
was impaired, and his crew enfeebled by a cruise of twelve 
months in the West Indies; yet upon hearing of the state of the 
colony, determined to adopt efficient measures for its relief and 
safety. He saw the importance of leaving an armed vessel 
on the coast, and by the most energetic exertion, he fitted up 
and repaired the old schooner Augusta, bearing six guns, and 
manned her with twelve men, under the command of Lieu- 
tenant Dashiell, to guard the coast, and aid the colony in any 
exigency. 

Captain Spence discovered every disposilion to place the col- 
ony in a state of safety and comfort before he left the coast, 
and therefore not only incurred a heavy expense by purchasing 
at Sierra Leone necessary articles for the settlement, but em- 
ployed a large part of his crew for twenty days in assisting 
the people to build a commodious house for the agent, and 
a stone fortress, which might prove " a tower of strength." But 
in the midst of his benevolent exertions, he had the affliction to 
see Dr. Dix, the surgeon of his ship, expire, after a few days' 
illness, with the fever of the climate. This valuable man had 
been a warm friend to the colony from the beginning; had vis- 
ited and administered relief to the emigrants, when at Sherbro; 
and now the tears of a grateful people fell into his grave. The 
rapid progress of disease among the seamen on shore, compel- 
led Captain Spence to leave incomplete the works he had com- 
menced; but with all his precautions and exertions, he could 

* Gurley's Life of Ashmun, p. 153, 154. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 201 

not prevent the loss of a large number of his crew. As many 
as forty men fell victims to this deleterious climate. 

The works which Captain Spence had commenced were all 
planned and superintended by Mr. Ashmun, who possessed not 
only undaunted resolution in time of danger, but extraordinary 
activity and versatility of mind. 

Upon leaving the coast of Africa, Captain Spence consented 
that Mr. Richard Seaton, the first clerk of the Cyane, should 
remain at the Cape, to assist Mr. Ashmun, who saw, that with 
impaired health and increasing burthens, it was impossible for 
him alone to fulfil the numerous and arduous duties of the 
agency. But having now an assistant to whom he could in- 
trust the affairs of the colony, he determined to make a coasting 
voyage to convey home about forty Kroomen, who had per- 
formed labours in the colony upon this condition, that they 
should be, without expense, conveyed to Settra Kroo, two 
hundred miles south of the Cape. He was absent twenty-one 
days on this expedition, and made accurate observations of 
every thing which he saw, and returned on the 13th of May, 
1823. 

In his communications to the Board, he remarks, " that the 
whole African coast was once populous, and the land cleared 
and cultivated; and that the present dense forests and entangled 
jungles, are a second growth; that the native towns are nu- 
merous but not large. The people raise their own rice,cassada, 
and palm oil; and procure their guns, powder, clothes, tobacco, 
knives, cooking utensils, and luxuries from French slave-tra- 
ders." "We saw," says he, "at least three vessels of this 
description." 

The chief men of every tribe which he visited, declared it 
to be their purpose to live in friendship, and trade with the 
colony. The report of the late war had spread every where 
among them, and had produced a high opinion of the strength 
and invincibility of the colony. Although, during his short 
absence the colonists had plied the work on hand, under the 
direction of one of their own number; yet he found that Mr. 
Seaton had been confined with a severe attack of fever. After 
languishing about two months, Mr Seaton determined on a 
return to the United States, in the Oswego, which had just 
come out with Dr. Ayres, and a company of emigrants. But 
it was determined that he should never see his native country. 



202 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

On the fifth day of the voyage, he breathed his last. The affec- 
tionate memorial of this interesting young man, given by Mr. 
Ashmun, deserves a place in this history. "The bloom of 
youth had just ripened into the graces of manhood, and given 
to a person naturally prepossessing, the higher ornament of a 
benevolent and highly accomplished understanding. He per- 
ceived his services were needed by a colony which had inte- 
rested his heart, and he gave them. Becoming the voluntary 
companion and assistant of the solitary agent, he saw the Cyane 
sail from the coast, with composure, on the 21st of April. His 
conciliating manners, aided by a judicious procedure, deepened 
in the hearts of the colonists, the impression first made by his 
disinterestedness. Seldom has the longest friendship power to 
cement a more cordial union, than had begun to unite to this 
generous stranger the heart of the writer." 

Mr. Ashmun, notwithstanding his ill health and pressing 
engagements, omitted no opportunity of advising the Board of 
the state of the colony, and of suggesting such plans for its im- 
provement, as occurred to his observing mind. The following 
extract will be read with interest. " Our little school is kept 
in operation, but it is a feeble affair. Our poor liberated cap- 
tives work hard and cheerfully, but receive little instruction. 
My heart often bleeds for them, and others in similar circum- 
stances. When can you send out a pious and accomplished 
schoolmaster ? Permit me to say a word about a minister of 
the gospel. We are starving for want of the able, and regular 
administration of the word and ordinances. Does not even the 
colony deserve the attention of some missionary society? Let 
it be considered, that a zealous minister, catechists, &c., residing 
in the town, may bestow any part of their labours on the hea- 
then. Tliey may open schools on the opposite side of the river, 
which will be immediately filled with heathen youth and 
children. They may form in town a missionary family. The 
people of this part of the coast have no inveterate, anti-religious 
prejudices to prevent them attending every Sabbath or oftener, 
to hear the divine word. Very good interpreters can be pro- 
cured for a trifling compensation. I am certain that an able 
minister of the gospel, clothed with all the authority and pre- 
rogatives of a commissioned ambassador of the Lord Jesus, is 
the man now wanting. Let catechists attend him." 

The horrible nature of the slave trade as carried on in Africa. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 203 

by those who engage to supply the slave ships, will be under- 
stood from the following account of the proceedings of King 
Boatswain, one of the staunchest friends of the colony, " Having 
received a quantity of goods from a French slaver, for which 
he had stipulated to pay young slaves; and making it a point 
of honour to be punctual, and yet not having at present the 
means of fulfilling his contract; what does he do, but looking 
round on the peaceable tribes about him, he singled out the 
Queahs, a small agricultural and trading people, of most in- 
offensive character. His warriors were skilfully distributed to 
the different hamlets, and making a simultaneous assault on 
the sleeping inhabitants, in the dead of night, accomplished 
without difficulty or resistance, the annihilation of the whole 
tribe, a few towns excepted. Every adult man and woman 
was murdered; every hut fired: very young children generally 
shared the fate of their parents. The boys and girls alone 
were reserved for the Frenchman." 

On the 24th of May, Dr. Ayres had returned to the colony, 
as principal agent, both of the government and society. By 
despatches that came with iiim, Mr. Ashmun had the mortifica- 
tion to learn, that his drafts, both on the government and 
society had been dishonoured; that neither had made any 
appropriation for his benefit; that he had been appointed to 
no agency by the government; that the society had invested 
him with no authority; but while it gratefully acknowledged 
his services and engaged liberally to reward them, had left his 
compensation for the past undetermined; and for the future, a 
matter for negotiation with the principal agent. 

By the return of the Oswego, he informed the Board, "That 
by ordinary success in trade on the coast, he could realize at 
least four times the sum he should ever ask or expect, either 
of the government or the society; that it was his wish, however, 
to lend his services to the cause of the society, as long as they 
should be required;— that he felt unworthy of the vote of thanks 
passed by the Board, for endeavouring to perform, as well as 
he could, the arduous and perilous duties connected with the 
defence of the colony; and that to know that any part of his 
conduct merited the approbation of the Board, was amongst 
the most powerful motives for endeavouring in future to de- 
serve it." 

He continued to give the Board an exact account of the con- 



204 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

dition and wants of the colony. He says, "A missionary and 
two schoolmasters, with a female teacher, are needed beyond 
measure." — Speaking of emigrants, he says, "They will come, 
I believe, as fast as the good of the colony shall require. It is 
not desirable, at present, that more than three or four shipments, 
of sixty persons each, be made in the course of the year. But 
the proportion may increase, and that largely, every year. Let 
one hundred families be well settled with a good house and 
perfectly improved lot to each, in town, and a plantation with- 
out, well cultivated: — let a warehouse and temporary recep- 
tacles for new comers be prepared — and the wheels of the 
machine — its schools, courts, Sec, get a good momentum on 
them, in a proper direction, and you may throw in new settlers 
as fast as your funds will admit." Again, "The delays and 
dangers encountered in acquiring secure possession of a terri- 
tory will endear it, and greatly enhance its value to the settlers 
for a long time to come. They have, even the most worldly, 
been driven by the extremity of their circumstances to suppli- 
cation and prayer. The truly pious among us, have thus 
contracted the habit of regarding and acknowledging the hand 
of God in all their ways; and of trusting his gracious promises 
more implicitly, both for soul and body, for this world and the 
next. 

"We are now one hundred and fifty strong, all in health, 
have about fifty houses, including three store-houses, and a 
heavy substantial stone tower, fourteen feet high, mounting six 
pieces of ordnance. We have a good framed house surrounded 
with a piazza: Dr. Ayres has brought out the frame of another 
of equal dimensions. Harmony and a good degree of industry, 
at present, prevail. Thus you see that we are prepared to go 
on and fulfil the anxious wishes of the friends of the cause, in 
relation to the cultivation of the lands, and the formation of a 
moral, regular, and happy society." 

The death of Mrs. Ashmun took place in the year 1822. She 
died about the middle of September. The entry in the Colonial 
Journal for September 12th, says, "There is no rational hope 
of her recovery. All remedies have been tried in vain. Her 
husband, with a burthened heart, resigns her up to God. When 
last possessed of the power of reflection, she declared herself 
happy in her God, and to possess not a wish not absorbed in 
his holy will. She seemed to have intercourse with God in 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION-. 205 

prayer. Her husband ventures to record it as the first wish of 
his heart, that the will of the Lord may be done." 

It may now with propriety be mentioned, that Lieutenant 
Dashiell left by Captain Spence, in the command of the schooner 
Augusta, sickened, and died on the 22d of June, 1823. He 
Avas succeeded in the command of the schooner by Lieutenant 
McMuUin. 

We will bring this chapter to a close, by adding some further 
description of Cape Mesurado, from the pen of Mr. Ashmun. 
(See Appendix to Sixth Report B. C. S.) 

"The whole cape (I mean the promontory of four miles in 
extent) is of nearly equal elevation throughout the whole ex- 
tent, running in a north-westerly, and south-easterly direction, 
and terminating in a double or bifurcated point. The river 
washes the north side of this promontory two miles before it 
falls into the sea; and its width from the river and sea on the 
north side, to the ocean on the south, is from two miles to 
three-fourths of a mile. The acclivity from the north side is 
abrupt, the descent towards the south, gentle; and near the sea 
contains an excellent tract of table land. The whole of this 
cape, except the alluvial table on the south side, is of volcanic 
origin. Two kinds of stone only are found, and these are 
abundant. The first is lava, in a state of partial decomposi- 
tion, and exceedingly friable: the other is of the limestone spe- 
cies, and almost incapable of being split or reduced, with the 
heaviest hammers. The wood on the cape is as lofty and 
nearly as heavy as that of our sturdiest forests, in America. 
On the table lands it is lighter. Some extensive tracts, and 
containing a rich soil, are nearly covered with brushwood. 
Our force here can clear for planting, ten acres of it in a day. 
Whole forests here are strongly bound together, and rendered 
nearly or quite impervious, by a profusion of rank vines of all 
sizes; some nearly as large as a small cable, which creep, 
wind, and intertwine with other trees and themselves in all 
possible directions. Often a dozen trees must be separated 
from their trunks before one can be brought to the ground. 

" Fish, in the river's mouth, are very numerous, especially iii 
the dry season — many of them are large — all that I have seen, 
excellent. 

" Every day I bless anew the favouring providence which 
eventually led your agents to establish the settlement on Cape 
18 



206 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Mesurado. Not an hour have I spent here without feeling 
the refreshing and sahitary influences of a fresh breeze from 
the ocean. The settlement can never be without it. When 
comfortable habitations are built, a foreigner would endanger 
his health by a residence here no more than spending the same 
time in sailing down the coast." ..." Could a person from 
America spend one week of the rainy season on this coast, on 
board a ship or on shore, he would find no difficulty as to the 
great cause of fever to new comers. In other parts of Africa 
it may be diff'erent; but on Mesurado, the cause of sickness 
is not marsh miasma, nor exhalations from the earth, nor the 
influence of the sun, but an atmosphere loaded with oceans of 
vapour. For months, this humid quality of the air receives not 
the least correction or abatement, day or night. Contrary to 
all former prejudices, I have indulged daily in the use of spirits, 
wine, and bark, for the purpose of giving tone to the system, 
and bracing it against the relaxing influence of a soaked and 
watery atmosphere, and have found benefit from the practice. 
I will say of Mesurado, that no situation in West Africa is 
more healthy. 

" The sea air does all for it that can be done in this climate. 
One peculiarity is, that the night air is nearly as pure as any 
other. The fevers with which our company have been visited^ 
are all nearly of the same type; quotidian and tertian inter- 
mittent, rather of the putrescent than inflammatory character — 
commonly gentle in degree, and easily subdued by remedies. 
Such has been the character of the sickness so far. The vio- 
lent symptoms of the Sherbro fever have not manifested them- 
selves in a single instance. 

"The rapidity and luxuriance of vegetation here, can scarcely 
be imagined by natives of temperate latitudes. A crop of beans 
now on the ground, grows without supporters, three and a 
half feet high. The pods on an average are eleven inches long. 
The seed was brought from America. I now find great ad- 
vantage in having been bred a farmer. When the cape is a 
Httle more cleared away; and dry, airy, and substantial dwel- 
lings built, I do not conceive it a matter of the greatest impor- 
tance to the health of the settlers, at what season they land 
here. The commencement of the rains would be the least 
favourable, but of any other season, there is little to choose. 
The constitution will be tried by the climate, arrive when they 
may." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 207 



CHAPTER XIV. 



ADMINISTRATION OF ASHMUN CONTINUED. 

Dr. Ayres having returned to the colony as principal agent, 
both of the Colonization Society, and the government of the 
United States, Mr. Ashmun was relieved from his heavy bur- 
den of anxieties and public duties; but his mind was too 
vigorous and active to be contented with indolent repose; he 
therefore availed himself of this season of leisure to pursue his 
studies ; which for several months he did with unusual alacrity 
and steadiness. 

Dr. Ayres did what he could to promote the comfort and 
health of the emigrants who came out with him in the Oswego; 
but it was not long before his own health was seriously im- 
paired ; so that he was no longer able to visit the sick, and in 
his prescriptions, was obliged to trust to the representations of 
the Rev. Lot Gary, and of the most intelligent of the colonists. 
The houses which had been prepared for these emigrants were 
also miserably defective; and there was a want of suitable 
medicines; on account of all which cipumstances, the mortality 
among these people was considerable; eight out of sixty having 
fallen victims of the fever of the country. 

Mr. Ashmun, though not aware of the extent to which his 
reputation was suftering in the United States, yet was not a 
little mortified at the neglect with which he had been treated 
by the Board; and was not satisfied with the indefinite pro- 
posals made for his compensation for past services; and that 
in relation to the future, they had left every thing to the discre- 
tion of the agent. He determined, however, to be so explicit, 
that no future difficulty might arise on this score. He proposed 
that he would continue in the service of the Board, provided 
they would allow him a salary of ^1250, the greater part of 
which he desired might be applied to the payment of his debts, 
in the United States, contracted before he went to Africa. The 
agent did not feel authorized to promise this sum-, and the 
proposal was sent home for the decision of the Board. 



20S HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

This subject was considered by the Board, at a meeting on the 
25th of September, 1S23; and it was resolved, "that consider- 
ing the resources of the Institution, they could not make the 
appropriation for the salary which was required; but that they 
would make him a full and fair compensation for any services 
which he might be desired by Dr. Ayres to render to the affairs 
of the colony, as their funds would enable them to do; and that 
while residing with Dr. Ayres, and assisting him, he should be 
maintained and provided for, at the expense of the society." 
This resolution was communicated to Mr. Ashmun in Decem- 
ber, just about the time that Dr. Ayres had determined to sail 
for the United States, on account of his declining health. 

The vessel which had arrived from America, and in which 
Dr. Ayres intended to return home, brought eleven recaptured 
Africans, sent out by the government, who were speedily re- 
stored to their friends, residing at no great distance from the 
colony. The intelligence brought by this vessel, of the affairs 
of the society, was by no means encouraging. Their resources 
were very low; so that a bill drawn by Mr. Ashmun for arti- 
cles of indispensable necessity, was returned protested. She 
had also disposed of nearly her whole cargo at Rio Pongas, 
and did not leave goods at the Cape, exceeding one hundred 
dollars in value. 

Under existing circumstances, it became a serious question 
with Mr. Ashmun, whether, treated and dishonoured as he 
had been, he should now continue in the service of the Board. 
They had neither made any definite arrangements to remune- 
rate him for his past services, nor made any definite proposals 
for his future support; and his bills drawn for the necessary 
expenses of the colony, had been returned, dishonoured. Cer- 
tainly he was under no obligations to the Board; but he saw 
that his relinquishment of the colony now, must be followed 
by its ruin. The colonists were in a state of much discontent, 
in consequence of the manner in which the town lots had been 
distributed; and their confidence, both in the Board and their 
agents, was greatly diminished. Indeed, evident signs of in- 
subordination began to be manifested. One individual declared, 
that neither he nor his associates would submit to government 
twenty-four hours after the Fidelity sailed. But Mr. Ashmun 
was the man for such an. exigency. He declared that subordi- 
nation should be enforced, even at the expense of life; and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 209 

compelled the person who had uttered the forementioned 
words, to revoke the threat, and pledge himself to the main- 
tenance of the laws. Urged by the necessities of the colony, 
and forgetting or passing by his own injuries, he resolved to 
exert himself to the utmost to preserve the settlement from 
ruin, and to promote its best interests. 

The provisions, when Dr. Ayres left the colony, were suffi- 
cient, with strict economy, to last four months, with such sup- 
plies as might be expected from the natives. The prospect 
however was not flattering. Many slavers were on the coast, 
in consequence of which, the price of rice was greatly en- 
hanced; but the most alarming feature in the condition of the 
colony was, that several of the leading colonists were prepared 
to set at defiance the authority of the agent, and openly avowed 
their purpose, to aid in no survey of the lots, or in any public 
improvements; and to leave uncleared and uncultivated, the 
land which had been assigned them, until they should receive 
a reply to the remonstrance sent home to the Board. One of 
the regulations of the society was, that every adult male emi- 
grant, should, while receiving rations from the public store, 
contribute the labour of two days in the week, to some work 
of public utility. Before Dr. Ayres's departure it had been an- 
nounced, that on the 5th of June, 1S24, all rations would cease, 
except in cases of special necessity, and it was now made 
known, that unless those who had appealed to the Board on the 
subject of their lands, would cultivate some portion of land 
designated by the agent, they should be expelled from the 
colony. About twelve of the colonists, however, persisted in 
their mutinous course ; and not only threw off the restraints of 
authority themselves, but used their influence to seduce others 
form obedience. Mr. Ashmun, who was not the man to be in- 
timidated, or driven from the plain course of duty, immediately 
published a notice, " That there then were in the colony, more 
than a, dozen healthy persons, who will receive no more pro- 
visions out of the public store, until they earn them." The 
only effect of this was, to increase the irritation of the disaffected 
persons, which led them to express more seditious opinions, and 
more openly to violate the laws. Matters were now approaching 
a crisis. The agent, on the 19th of June, directed the rations 
of the offending individuals to be stopped. The next morning, 
they assembled in a riotous manner, at the agency-house, and 
18* 



210 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

endeavoured by angry denunciations to drive the agent from 
his purpose; but finding him immovable, they proceeded to 
the store-house, where the commissary was at that moment 
issuing rations for the week; and seizing, each, a portion of 
the provisions, hastened to their respective homes. 

Towards the evening of the same day, Mr. Ashmun ad- 
dressed a " circular" to the colonists, setting forth the crimi- 
nality of this mutinous proceeding; stating that a full represen- 
tation thereof, would be transmitted to America, by the earliest 
opportunity — exhorting all to energy and industry in the con- 
struction of their houses, and the cultivation of their lands, 
during the dry season : and, finally warning them against dis- 
order and rebellion, as they would avoid guilt, confusion, dis- 
grace, shame, and ruin in this world, and in a future one the still 
more terrible judgments of God. They were reminded, that 
their oaths were as binding as when first taken ; and the pros- 
pect for themselves, their friends, and their children depended 
upon their conduct ; and that the agent, while disposed to use 
the language of friendship, would act as he had ever done, with 
the authority becoming the representative of the American 
Colonization Society. The effect of this judicious, seasonable, 
and solemn address, was happy. The well-disposed were en- 
couraged ; the wavering confirmed ; and the rebellious struck 
with awe. The leader in the sedition, almost immediately con- 
fessed and deplored his error. And thus a speedy termination 
was given to this alarming mutiny, by the firmness, and wisdom 
of the agent. 

On the 13th of February, 1824, arrived the ship Cyrus, only 
thirty-two days from the United States, bringing one hundred 
and five emigrants, mostly from Petersburg, Virginia, and in- 
ferior as a company, to none of their class, in intelligence, 
industry, and morality. Universal health had attended them, 
during the voyage; all were safely landed; some had property; 
supplies of ordinary provisions had been sent out for all ; the 
season was delightful for building and clearing their grounds ; 
and a mutual afiection seemed to bind them together, as in one 
harmonious family. Mr. Ashmun was deeply aflected with 
the goodness of God in this most seasonable rehef. 

He assembled these emigrants, and explained to them the 
views of the Society, and the regulations of the Board, and of 
the colony. They were exhorted and encouraged to proceed 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 211 

diligently to build their houses, cultivate the soil, and with forti- 
tude to meet and subdue the difficulties which might stand in 
the way of their prosperity. Thirty houses had been partially 
constructed since the departure of Dr. Ayres ; and a new maga- 
zine was also commenced. 

By the return of the Cyrus, Mr. Ashmun communicated to 
the Board a full and detailed account of the affairs of the 
colony, since the departure of Dr. Ayres; and entered into an 
earnest vindication of his own conduct, in relation to the 
purchases which he had made ; the bills for the payment of 
which, had been protested. This defence, as far as can be now 
judged, amounted to a complete justification. 

But the bright prospects which the arrival of the Cyrus had 
opened to the colony, were soon overcast, by a series of dis- 
asters. The whole company, which had come out in the Cyrus, 
without any exception, were attacked by the fever. No regu- 
lar physician was in the colony ; and the only substitute was 
the Rev. Lot Cary, whose skill resulted entirely from his good 
sense, observation, and experience. Not a pound of rice (an 
article most important to the sick,) was in the public store: nor 
had the agent either goods or credit, by which he could obtain 
a supply. Out of his own private stock, however, he advanced 
to the value of two hundred dollars, and despatched the colonial 
schooner to Bassa, which at the end of nine days, returned 
with only twenty bushels of rice. 

The spirit of mutiny, which had for a while appeared to be 
subdued, still existed ; and a number of persons continued 
secretly to fan the flame of rebellion. 

On the 19th of March, it was found necessary to reduce the 
rations to one-half the usual quantity ; which gave occasion to 
the malecontents to accuse the agent of oppression, and they 
did not hesitate to address to him the most opprobrious language. 
This induced Mr. Ashmun to assemble the inhabitants, and to 
make to them a solemn and affecting address, in which he 
showed them that they were bound by a solemn contract to the 
Colonization Society; and that by the solemnity of an oath, 
they had all bound themselves to the performance of certain 
duties. He explained to them the articles of the constitution, 
by which important privileges were secured to them and their 
children — that they had sworn to obey the government, and 
not attempt to overthrow it — that their peace and security de- 



212 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION, 

pended essentially on their submission to rightful authority, and 
obedience to the laws ; — and that hitherto, their greatest suffer- 
ings had resulted from disrespect to the agents, and disobedience 
to the orders of the society. He proceeded then in the most 
pungent and impressive style to represent to them the disorderly 
course which they had pursued ; and especiahy, held up in its 
naked deformity, the crime of those twelve, who had openly 
rebelled, had threatened his life, and had violently and un- 
righteously seized a part of the public stores. He, moreover, 
set fully and clearly before them the present deplorable con- 
dition of the colony, and the speedy ruin which must inevitably 
come upon them, if they did not return to a course of industry 
and obedience. He assured them, that they would not be up- 
held either by the Colonization Society, or the government of 
the United States, in their present course of opposition to the 
agent. In the conclusion, he called upon every well-disposed 
man to give him a pledge of his submission to lawful authority ; 
and promised for himself, that while he would not consent to 
possess the mere shadow of authority, he was ready to exert 
himself to the utmost, to avert the impending calamity. Most 
of the colonists tacitly assented to the truth and justice of 
this address; and Mr. Ashmun proceeded to adopt every 
measure in his power to relieve and preserve the colony. But 
they afforded him no vigorous support ; and he had already 
communicated to the Board his opinion, " that the evil was in- 
curable by any of the remedies which fell within their existing 
provisions." 

Since the departure of Dr. Ayres, he had heard nothing from 
the Board of Managers. He had the pain, however, of seeing 
that his conduct had been held up for censure in one of the 
public journals of the United States. 

The prospects were such, that Mr. Ashmun began to medi- 
tate a withdrawal from his present painful situation, where for 
his services he received calumny instead of remuneration. He 
therefore, on the 15th of March, addressed a letter to the Board, 
desiring to be released from any further duties to the colony, 
which might require his residence in Africa. His letter to the 
Board, on this occasion, is the effusion of a generous and bene- 
volent mind, deeply sensible that he had not received full jus- 
tice at their hands ; but expressing a confidence in the equity 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 213 

of their decision, when they should be fully informed of all the 
existing circumstances in which he was obliged to act. 

Being fully persuaded that government, without an armed 
force, had become impossible, he now determined on a visit to 
the Cape de Verd Islands, in the hope that a sea voyage might 
be serviceable to his health ; and being unwilling longer to hold 
an office, the duties of which he had not the power to enforce. 
Whether he should ever return was in his own mind doubtful; 
but he took the best measures he could to establish a provision- 
al government during the absence of all the agents. He there- 
fore appointed Elijah Johnson to take charge of the property 
and books of the colony, with particular instructions as to his 
duties, until a properly authorized agent should arrive from the 
United States. 

In his fatiguing exertions to prepare for his departure, Mr. 
Ashmun ruptured an artery in the mouth, which had been in- 
jured in a bungling attempt to draw a decayed tooth, and a 
profuse bleeding commenced which could not be stopped. Ad- 
vantage was taken of his helpless state by some unprincipled 
persons in the colony, to rob him of a considerable part of the 
little stores which he had provided for the voyage, and other 
property, to the value of a hundred and seventy-five dollars. 
Before leaving the Cape he left a paper, to be dehvered to his 
successor in the agency ; of which, as being characteristic of 
the man, an extract will be inserted. 

" J. Ashmun has cheerfully spent on this Cape nearly two of 
the best years of his life. He is now about to leave it, probably 
for ever. He has tried to do his duty — detected himself in occa- 
sional errors; and whhout asking or expecting any recompense 
from his fellow-men, wishes only to avoid the hard destiny of 
his predecessors in the agency — the curses and false accusations 
of those whom it has been his constant aim to serve. His pre- 
decessors have been accused of transmitting false accounts of 
the colony to the Board. J. Ashmun here leaves it on record, 
that if any man, after his absence, brings this accusation against 
himself, that man is a slanderer and a liar." 

In the same style, the paper goes on to speak of the slanders 
against former agents for embezzling public property, revelling 
on the society's bounty, and pinching the people to furnish their 
own wardrobe and table luxuriously. All such accusations 
against himself he denounces as false and slanderous ; and men- 



214 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tions one man by his initials, who had deserved the pillory for 
slandering the agents. In the conclusion he says: "I do not wish 
to be remembered at all after I am gone. But if any of the 
colonists do me that honour, as it is unsolicited and gratuitous, 
I require it of them, as they must answer for it hereafter, to re- 
member with me the command of the Most High, ' Thou shalt 
not bear false witness against thy neighbour.' " And he re- 
quests his successor to preserve this paper, and read it to any 
one who should accuse him in the premises. 

Of Mr. Ashmun's retirement from the duties of general 
agent, which had devolved upon him after the departure of Dr. 
Ayres, the Board speak in the following respectful terms: 

" Mr. Ashmun, whose health had long been impaired by dis- 
ease — whose mind was oppressed by a weight of cares, which 
no single individual ought to sustain — continued to discharge 
his duties until a short retirement from his station, and a change 
of air, seemed to offer the only chance of life." 

For the benefit of any one who might succeed him, he left a 
full statement of the condition and necessities of the colony; 
appointed E. Johnson, a man of tried integrity and ability, ge- 
, neral superintendent of affairs ; provided for the instruction of 
the recaptured Africans; and took passage for the Cape de Verd 
Islands on the 2d of April, 1824. 

The remonstrances sent home by some of the colonists, and 
the communications of Mr. Ashmun, had convinced the Board 
that immediate and strong measures were required, in order to 
prevent the subversion of the colony, and the total extinction of 
their hopes. And being struck with the lucid, manly, and can- 
did style of his communications, they were persuaded that his 
indefatigable labours and anxieties deserved to be remunerated ; 
therefore, just about the time of his leaving the colony the Board 
resolved to comply with the terms which he had offered, and sent 
home in Dr. Ayres's letter, and they now appropriated five hun- 
dred dollars for his benefit. They also gave their sanction to a 
reply to the remonstrants, and an address to the colonists in ge- 
neral, depicting vividly the ruin which must ensue in any com- 
munity that dared to violate, or even ceased to venerate, the 
majesty of the law ; but especially a feeble and exposed settle- 
ment, such as that to which they belonged. They earnestly 
exhorted them to industry, order, and the strict performance of 
every duty, by warnings, appeals, motives of interest, and the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 215 

solemn sanctions of religion ; and finally, did not omit to threaten 
to punish offenders, while they would assist and encourage all 
the sober and virtuous who should exert themselves to maintain 
the peace, and guard the authority of the laws. This address 
was chiefly prepared by Elias B. Caldwelf, Esq., the Secretary 
of the Society, and one of the most early and efficient friends of 
colonization. 

But scarcely had these despatches been sent off, when the 
Board received new communications from the colony, in which 
Mr. Ashmun was charged with oppression, neglect of duty, and 
carrying away the goods of the Society. Certain naval ofiicers 
also, who had visited the Cape after Mr. Ashmun's departure, 
had their minds prejudiced by the rumours which they heard 
from the colonists, and therefore brought home an unfavourable 
report of the agent. Those who had before doubted the inte- 
grity of Mr. Ashmun, now thought it certain that he had none; 
and those who had never questioned it before, now began to 
doubt. 

In this uncertain and alarming state of affairs, the Managers 
of the Society represented strongly to the Executive of the 
United States the importance of sending an armed vessel to the 
colony, with some individual duly commissioned both by the 
Government and the Society to examine into the condition of 
the agency ; and to make such temporary arrangements as the 
exigence of the case required. The person selected for this 
service was Mr. R. R. Gurley, so extensively known since as 
the Secretary of the Board; and without incurring the censure 
of invidiousness towards others, we maybe permitted to say, 
the most active, zealous, and efficient friend of colonization in 
the United States. 

Towards the last of June, 1824, Mr. Gurley embarked on 
board the Porpoise, at Norfolk, under the command of Captain 
Skinner ; and on the 24th of July, the vessel having anchored 
at Porto Praya, Mr. Ashmun came on board. The first im- 
pressions of Mr. Gurley upon seeing him are thus described : 

" There was that in his presence and aspect which, once 
seen, is never forgotten. The officers of the ship, who were 
strangers to him, felt that he was an extraordinary man. In 
his whole appearance were blended dignity and humility. The 
serene light of reason, of goodness, of meekness, softened the 
stateliness of sorrow, and threw a charm on the grandeur of his 



216 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Storm-shaken, but self-sustained spirit. His soul seemed re- 
freshed by tidings from his native land, and his social affections 
to gush forth, pure and simple, as those of childhood, from the 
deeply-stirred fountains of his heart." 

Mr. Gurley explained to him the object of his mission, and 
informed him truly of the unfavourable impression made on the 
public mind respecting his agency. His purpose was soon 
formed to accompany Mr. Gurley to Africa, expressing the hope 
that he might be " enabled to render him some aid in the ardu- 
ous duties of his mission." 

Captain Skinner having offered him accommodations on 
board the Porpoise, which he accepted, they came to anchor at 
Cape Mesurado on the 13th of August. It must have been 
of unspeakable benefit to Mr. Gurley, in the execution of his 
trust, to have Mr. Ashmun's company for three weeks; by 
which means he was enabled to acquire a thorough knowledge 
of the state of affairs, the temper of the people, and the difficul- 
ties with which he would have to contend. 

Every day's conversation increased Mr. Gurley's esteem for 
his companion; and after his arrival he found that there was 
not a shadow of evidence to convict him of any impropriety or 
mismanagement. Not a man in the colony dared to accuse him 
of an unwise or an unworthy action. 

Mr. Gurley found some things encouraging in the state of 
the colony: and many others of an unfavourable nature. 
Among the former were the health of most of the people — their 
improvements and fortifications — their morality and religion, 
especially their Sunday schools — and the warm gratitude which 
they appeared to feel towards the Board for sending a special 
mission to promote their prosperity. But of the latter, were 
their dissatisfaction at the decision of the Board— the protracted 
weakness of the emigrants by the Cyrus, and the want of medi- 
cines and a skilful physician ; and, above all, the want of strict 
subordination to authority, and obedience to the laws. The 
causes of these evils were seen to be various ; but it does not 
comport with the brevity of our history to enter into details. 

While Mr. Gurley remained at the Cape, a plan for the more 
perfect government of the colony was determined on, with the 
full concurrence of Mr. Ashmun. Harmony between the agent 
and colonists seemed to be fully restored ; and the new regula- 
tions went immediately into force. It was not the purpose of 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 217 

Mr. Gurley to continue long on the coast of Africa, at this sea- 
son ; and before he left Washington he had received his orders 
to return in the vessel which carried him out. 

When he returned to the United States he fully expected to 
be able to remove every cloud of doubt or suspicion which still 
shaded Mr. Ashmun's character; but, to his disappointment, 
he fotmd that this was not so easily effected as he had appre- 
hended. And when the regulations adopted by him for the 
government of the colony were laid before the Board, to his 
great mortification he found that they were not approved. 

The committee to whom these proceedings were referred ar- 
ranged them, in their report, under six heads : upon each they 
pronounced an unfavourable judgment ; and this report, adopt- 
ed by the Board, was sent to Mr. Ashmun. 

But on the 15th of December, 1824, communications of a 
very cheering kind were received by the Board, from Mr. 
Ashmun. These furnished, at the same time, conclusive evi- 
dence of the zeal, ability, and industry of the agent; and of 
the great, and even extraordinary, improvement of the colony. 
His own account is: "After the severe struggles, reiterated 
disappointments and nameless evils, which had for so many 
years filled the annals of the establishment, to see the whole 
course of things suddenly reversed, — a horizon without a 
cloud, — and unmingled, uninterrupted prosperity, such as, per- 
haps, never before marked the early progress of a similar set- 
tlement, may well excite in an individual situated as I am, 
feelings but little compatible with the coolness which ought to 
dictate an official despatch." — "The official decisions commu- 
nicated to them, along with the new modification of the gov- 
ernment, were received with an unanimity of acquiescence, 
which I confess was painful to me. I feared either that they 
could not understand them, or thought opposition at that 
'moment, unseasonable. But the event has proved my fears 
unfounded; and I now consider myself authorized to state, that 
there is an enlightened and growing attachment rooted in the 
bosoms of the great body of tlie people, to their laws, their 
officers, and the authority of the society. The participation of 
the magistrates and council (according to the new form of gov- 
ernment,) in the deliberations of the agent, and the administra- 
tion of justice, has tended chiefly to form the officers themselves 
to a modesty of deportment and opinion, which they never 
19 



218 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

manifested before, and to secure to the government the united 
support of the people." — "I witness with the highest pleasure, 
the increasing sense of the sacredness of law ; and, as far as I 
know, the feeling is universal. The system of government has 
proved itself practicable." — "The agent has adopted the rule, 
never to interpose his authority, where that of the proper offi- 
cer, however inferior, is adequate to the emergency." And 
among all the items of pleasing intelligence communicated in 
this letter of the agent, none was so important as the last — 
an increased attention to religion among the colonists. "It 
hath," says he, "pleased the God and Father of our Lord Je- 
sus Christ, in the sovereignty of his mercy, to visit the colony 
with an abundant effusion of his Spirit. This great event, an 
era in the history of the settlement, which has been marked in 
heaven, and will long be celebrated by its witnesses and mon- 
uments on earth, occurred in all the month of September. 
About the middle of that month, were witnessed the first ap- 
pearances which gave evidence of the holy work." — "About 
thirty of our colonists, of all ages and characters indiscrimi- 
nately, have, as the fruits of the work, publicly professed their 
faith in the Redeemer. They have so far walked as the regen- 
erate children of God. A change in their character and whole 
deportment, was as obvious as would be their transformation 
to another order of being. From lovers of sin and the world, 
they have become lovers of God and his people. Bad hus- 
bands, wives, children, and subjects, are changed to affectionate 
relatives, industrious, sober, and useful citizens. As far as 
mortal instrumentality was concerned in this blessed work, it 
was exerted by silent, humble supplications to Almighty God, 
a holy deportment of Christian professors, and a plain, simple 
and serious inculcation of the saving doctrines of Christ and his 
apostles." 

These despatches also gave information of the rapid progress 
of public improvements in the colony, and in the organiza- 
tion of the militia. A stone pier, one hundred feet in length, 
had been constructed in the river; several schools had been 
put in operation; and two new churches were in progress. 
Friendly negotiations had been entered into with the chiefs of 
the tribes in the vicinity, to encourage mutual intercourse in the 
way of trade, and by which they agreed to surrender any fu- 
gitives from justice, who might seek refuge among them. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 219 

The committee of the Board, to whom these despatches 
were referred, reported : " That in their opinion Mr. Ashmim 
had shown great attention to the important charge committed 
to him ;" had conducted himself with " much prudence and 
propriety, generally :" and recommended that the Society 
should express their cordial approbation of his conduct. 

After this, the clouds which had overshadowed Mr. Ash- 
mun's character began to break ; and it must have afforded a 
rare gratification to Mr. Gurley to find, that the new form of go- 
vernment which he, with Mr. Ashmun, had given to the colony, 
and which had met with so little favour from the Board, proved 
in practice to work well. Men, however intelligent and up- 
right, who undertake to judge of the state of a people among 
whom they have never been, and to determine, on general 
principles, what system of government is best adapted to them, 
are almost sure to err. After two years' experience of the diffi- 
culties of governing the colony, Mr. Ashmun knew better what 
might and ought to be done to restore peace and preserve or- 
der, than all the wisest politicians in the United States. He 
had the enlarged views of a thorough statesman ; and the de- 
vout feelings of an humble and sincere Christian. Doubtless, 
Mr. Gurley, though specially invested with the power of esta- 
blishing such regulations as he judged most expedient, did not 
fail to avail himself of the longer experience and sagacious 
judgment of Mr. Ashmun. Indeed, it has occurred to us, that 
when this fabric of colonization is complete, the foundation of 
which has been so auspiciously laid, though in the midst of 
troubles, these two congenial spirits, Ashmun and Gurley, 
should have assigned to them niches, side by side. 



CHAPTER XV. 

ASHMUN'S ADMINISTRATION CONTINUED. 

On the 13th of March, 1825, the brig Hunter, with sixty-six 
emigrants, arrived at the Cape. Most of these had been brought 
up to agricuhure ; and now it was seen by Mr. Ashmun that 



220 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

there would be a great convenience and advantage in having 
an addition to the territory of the colony. He therefore enter- 
ed into negotiations with the chiefs who owned the land, for a 
tract on the river St. Paul's. This was more especially deemed 
expedient, because lie had observed that the attempts at agri- 
culture had failed, because the land belonging to the colony 
was not favourable to cultivation : it was either too high and 
rocky, or too low and wet; or otherwise mere sand. The 
agent, to obtain a good tract of land, proceeded far up the Me- 
surado river ; but was disappointed in finding such as he wish- 
ed. He therefore turned his attention to St. Paul's river. The 
tract of country stretching along the south bank of this river 
met his views fully; and after a variety of delays, always inci- 
dent to negotiation with the natives, he obtained a cession of 
the whole territory in question, and paid down part of the pur- 
chase money. This desirable tract of country Mr. Ashmun re- 
presents as having been once densely populated, and well im- 
proved, but has been desolated by the slave trade. The deed 
of purchase includes all the territory bounded north by St. 
Paul's river, and west by Stockton creek ; except such scatter- 
ed settlements as are now actually in the possession of the na- 
tives. 

The importance of this acquisition the agent considered very 
great; the advantages of which he explained to the Board in 
a long communication on the subject. " It will," says he, " en- 
able the Society to dispose of ten thousand settlers in a compass 
of ten miles from town : whereas, with the original territory, 
that number could not be comfortably settled within twenty 
miles ; and the settlement will be capable of an extension of 
twenty miles, without leaving the St. Paul's, or big eastern 
branch of Mesurado, more than three miles. 

" This acquisition of territory will secure to the colony, in a 
short time, the entire command of the St. Paul's, and with it 
the trade of that river. 

" The country on St. Paul's being much more salubrious than 
the Mesurado, future emigrants will sutler less in their health." 

Some ferment was produced by the dissatisfaction of some 
of the chiefs, who violently remonstrated against the sale of so 
large a tract of country ; but the whole subsided without seri- 
ous consequences. 

Immediately, a number of families were designated to lay the 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 221 

foundation of a new settlement, to be named St. Paul's ; and 
a large passage-boat was soon placed on the river, to ply be- 
tween the Cape and St. Paul's. And on the 13th of Novem- 
ber, 1825, the agent accompanied the first settlers who com- 
menced the town of St. Paul's. They hired from the natives 
two small houses, until they could provide shelter for them- 
selves. " Such," says Mr. Ashmun, " are the small beginnings 
of this settlement. The blessing of God Almighty, in whose 
name, and for whose praise, those beginnings have been made, 
and are humbly consecrated, alone can raise its head to the ele- 
vation which it is the prayer of the agent — who makes this re- 
cord, seated on a bamboo pallet, in a solitary native cabin, on 
the margin of St. Paul's — that it may attain at no great distance 
of time." 

By the Hunter, the decision of the Board respecting the new 
form of government, and new regulations, was received. It 
threw a momentary damp on the agent's hopes; but being 
fully persuaded that they had acted under imperfect informa- 
tion of the state of things, he sent them by the return of the 
Hunter a full view of the present state and prospects of the 
colony. He also informed them how well the new system had 
operated in practice, and of the great increase of his own con- 
fidence in its full and ultimate success. 

The Board, on the 25th of April, 1825, rescinded their former 
act, disapproving the new form of government ; and having at 
a former meeting appointed Dr. Peaco, the United States' 
agent, the agent of the Board also, they now reconsidered and 
rescinded that act, in lieu of which they resolved, " That Mr. 
Ashmun be appointed colonial agent to the Society ; and that 
Dr. Peaco, the Government agent, be authorized and requested 
on his arrival in the colony, to assist Mr. Ashmun with his 
counsel; and fully authorized to take upon him all the duties 
of colonial agent, in the absence, inability, or death of Mr. 
Ashmun." 

This places Mr. Ashmun's relations to the Board in their 
proper light; but still all were not satisfied. An influential 
member of the Board, not present at the foregoing proceedings, 
at an ensuing meeting, had a committee appointed to investi- 
gate certain charges which had been brought against Mr. Ash- 
mun's character. The report of this committee was highly fa- 
vourable to the agent; and thus the last cloud which oversha- 
19* 



222 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

dowed the character of this distinguished man was dissipated: 
and his friend and biographer remarks with apparent exulta- 
tion," He NOW STANDS ON AN EMINENCE IN CLEAR DAT." 

Mr. Ashmun also possessed now the undivided confidence of 
the colony, whose best interests he endeavoured assiduously to 
promote by every means in his power. 

But unclouded days, in this dark world, are few. The emi- 
grants brought to Africa by the ship Hunter were nearly all at- 
tacked with the fever during the first month of their residence ; 
and there was no physician to attend them, for even Mr. Lot 
Gary was laid up with a hurt. In these painful circumstances 
the mind of Mr. Ashmun was agitated and distressed; but the 
disease did not prove so fatal as was expected. The mortal- 
ity was chiefly confined to children. 

In the month of April, 1825, he made an accurate survey of 
the territory, and drew a map for the satisfaction of the Board. 
At the close of the year 1825, Mr. Ashmun prepared and 
sent to the Board, a very full and detailed account of the state 
and progress of the colony. Health was restored; adults, 
some time resident in Africa, preferred this climate to any other, 
and enjoyed as good health as in Am.erica. The government 
had proved efficient and popular; the laws were venerated 
and obeyed ; the sentiments of the people had been purified 
and elevated. The settlement on St. Paul's river, opened a 
pleasing prospect of greater prosperity in agriculture. The 
colonists are represented as living in a style of neatness and 
comfort, approaching, in many instances, to elegance, unknown 
before their arrival in this country. Not a family, scarcely, 
but could set a plentiful table, and appear in decent apparel. 
Mechanics and labourers received an ample remuneration for 
their work, and all found as much employment as they wished. 
Several important public buildings had been commenced, some 
of which were nearly completed. Two beautiful chapels had 
been erected, and dedicated to the worship of God. Four 
schools, besides Sunday schools, were in successful operation. 
The militia were organized and exercised. Moreover, the 
good eff'ects of the colony on the native tribes, began to appear. 
Sixty of their children had been adopted, as the children of the 
colony, and had already learned sometliing of the great and 
interesting truths of the Christian religion. "Our influence 
over them," said Mr. Ashmun, "is unbounded; it is increas- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 223 

ing ; it is more extensive than at this early period I dare risk 
my character for veracity by asserting." — " No man of the 
least consideration in the country, will desist from his impor- 
tunities until one, at least, is fixed in some colonist's family." In 
this communication, he called loudly on the philanthropists of 
the United States, to come forth in the cause of education, in 
relation to this people, so solicitous to receive instruction. In 
the close, we have his views of the work achieved by the Col- 
onization Society. "To the lasting honour," says he, "of the 
American Colonization Society, it has founded a new empire 
on this continent, of which the basis is Christianity, intelligence, 
and rational liberty." — "The society has demonstrated to the 
world, experimentally, the soundness of the views with which 
they appeared before it in 1817-18, without funds, patronage, 
or a precedent in the annals of the human race." 

The year 1826 opened on the colony under very favourable 
auspices. Mr. Ashmun, in writing to the Board, says: "Our 
town begins to assume the appearance of a beautiful little West 
India sea-port, and certainly is one of the most delightful situ- 
ations on the face of the globe. In beauty, and grandeur of 
prospect, no station can be taken on the Potomac, half so 
charming, or half so commanding." 

The Board were contemplating the appointment of a Board 
of Assistants, as they had already a constitutional rule for the 
appointment of a Board of Agents. Mr. Ashmun freely ex- 
pressed his opinion, as being entirely adverse to both these 
Boards. In regard to the latter, it had been tried, and had 
utterly failed. He insisted on the vast importance, in a colony 
like that, of having one directing head ; and predicted, that if 
the Board of Agents should be restored, the anarchy of former 
years would return. 

Two expeditions were fitted out this year. The first, con- 
sisting of thirty-four emigrants, in the brig Vine, mostly from 
Newport, Rhode Island. Eighteen of these, before their depart- 
ure, were organized into a church. The Rev. Calvin Holton, 
as missionary, and a printer, accompanied them. The Rev. 
Horace Sessions went out also in the same vessel, intending to 
return in her. 

The Vine sailed from Boston on the fourth of January, and 
arrived at Liberia on the seventh of February. A press, with 
its necessary appendages, many valuable books, and other 



2M HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

important articles, were sent out in this vessel by the generous 
citizens of Boston, who assumed the entire expense of printing 
for the first year. 

The other vessel was the Indian Chief, which with a hun- 
dred and fifty-four emigrants, left Norfolk on the fifteenth of 
February, and reached Monrovia on the twenty-second of 
March. In this went Dr. John W. Peaco, agent for the Gov- 
ernment for recaptured Africans, who was also empowered to 
act as Assistant Agent and Physician for the colony. By the 
return of the Vine, Mr. Ashmun expressed the high sense 
which he entertained, of the importance of the printing press, 
and also of the arrival of such a missionary as Mr. Holton, 
who was about to introduce a general system for the education 
of the colonists. This plan embraced, (1,) the children of the 
colonists; (2,) native children, living in the settlement; (3,) re- 
captured Africans, of whom there were one hundred and 
twenty; (4,) a class of young men and women, with a view 
to prepare them to be teachers. It was also determined to 
introduce the Lancasterian plan of instruction. Mr. Holston 
was a member of the Baptist denomination, and went out 
under the direction of the Baptist Board of Missions, Mr. 
Ashmun, to encourage their efforts, made to it a grant (sub- 
ject to the decision of the Board,) of a tract of land adjoining 
to Monrovia, on the condition, that a school-house should be 
erected on it immediately, and that it should for ever be devo- 
ted to missionary purposes. 

In the mysterious dispensations of Providence, the joy which 
pervaded the colony on the arrival of the Vine, was converted 
into sorrow and lamentation. These emigrants were attacked 
with the worst form of the African fever, and one half of them, 
including Mr. Sessions, Mr. Holton, and Mr. Force the print- 
er, were carried off by the disease ! 

The Rev. Horace Sessions demands a particular mention 
in this history. He had but just entered on the public duties 
of the ministry; and as an agent, had done much to arouse 
the attention of New England to the subject of colonization. 
He superintended the embarkation of the emigrants in the 
Vine, and accompanied them to Liberia, but had no intention 
of remaining. He wished to obtain such knowledge of (he 
colony as could only be obtained accurately, by a visit to the 
place. He did not die in Monrovia, but on the passage home, 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 225 

and his remains sleep in the same ocean with those of the 
lamented Mills. 

The Rev. Mr. Holton went out to Africa, under the influence 
of that divine charity, "which seeketh not her own." For 
some time after his attack, he was not thought to be in danger. 
He even appeared at one time to be convalescent; but in July, 
he gradually declined, until on the twenty-third of that month, 
he gently expired. " His spirit was uniformly sustained by a 
steadfast faith in the promises of Christ, to whom at an early 
stage of his sickness, he had resigned himself without reserve; 
and never afterwards appeared to admit for a moment, any 
distressing anxiety as to the termination of his affliction." 

With one exception, all the emigrants by the Vine, were 
natives of the Northern States, or had long resided there; and 
leaving Boston in the depth of winter, they arrived at Liberia 
in the very hottest season of the whole year. 

The diff"erence of arriving in Africa from a southern climate 
and from a northern, could not have been more manifest, 
than in the case of the emigrants in the Vine, and the larger 
number in the Indian Chief. These last suffered very little, 
and some who left Virginia in bad health, found themselves 
much improved by the voyage. Most of the emigrants by these 
two vessels, were stationed by Mr. Ashmun on the territory 
recently purchased, of which mention has been made ; so that 
in the month of June, there were thirty-three plantations on 
Stockton Creek, and seventy-three at Caldwell. 

During Mr. Ashmun's absence from the agency-house, with 
four of his family, at the anniversary of the Liberia Missionary 
Society, the house was struck with lightning, and the house- 
keeper—the only person at home — instantly killed. This was 
indeed a very remarkable interposition of providence, to pre- 
serve his life. While some vessels were in port, Mr, Ashmun 
proposed an expedition to Trade Town, with a view of putting 
an end to the slave trade, carried on very extensively, at that 
place. This expedition was successful, and a number of slaves 
were found in the place. 

During the year 1826, the commerce of the colony had rapidly 
increased: between the 1st of January, and the 15th of July, 
fifteen vessels had stopped at Monrovia, Five of the most im- 
portant stations on the coast, between Cape Mount and Trade 
Town, were occupied by the colony, either by purchase, or by 



226 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

agreement to be used by them, on deeds of perpetual lease. 
This includes an extent of one hundred and fifty miles. The 
country at the mouth of the Sesters river, which is very fertile, 
and abounding in palm oil, and camwood, and extending up 
the river to its source, was obtained. Also the right of occu- 
pancy to a tract, nine miles south of Sesters, was secured. Be- 
sides, a perpetual grant, rent free, had been secured of an inde- 
pendent territory, lying between the two Junk rivers, from 
thirty to forty miles south of Cape Mesurado. Mr. Ashmun 
regarded this as a very important acquisition. 

The confidence in Mr. Ashmun, by the natives, increased 
daily ; so that they began to give him the title of " Head-man 
of all their country," and " father of we all." 

In one of his letters to the Board, in this year, (1826) he says : 
" All this region of Africa opens its bosom for the reception 
of her returning children. I rejoice in the testimonials furnished 
in different ways, of a growing and enlightened interest in your 
Board, among the American people. It is one of those great 
and benevolent designs on which the merciful Father of all 
mankind loves to smile, which the American Colonization 
Society has undertaken. Its root is deep, and its growth, how- 
ever gradual, I entirely believe, will be sure. But the greatest 
difficulties, for difficulties the cause has always struggled with, 
I never supposed to be on this side the ocean. To obviate pre- 
judices, unite the exertions, and secure the enterprise of the 
whole American people — this is the great labour ; and to such 
as engage in it and prosecute it, will be chiefly due the ac- 
knowledgments of posterity." 

The colony had now risen from weakness to strength ; and 
many who had been incredulous, now began to change their 
opinion, and to admit that the scheme of colonizing the free 
people of colour on the coast of Africa, was practicable. And 
as to Mr. Ashmun, his reputation, both in Africa, and among 
the friends of colonization in America, was as high as it well 
could be. 

On the 1 1th of April, 1827, arrived at Monrovia, after a pass- 
age of forty days, the Brig Doris, Captain Mathews, with 
ninety-three emigrants, most of them from North Carolina. 
These, like those who went out in the Indian Chief, suffered 
but slightly from the climate, and at an early day, took up their 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 227 

The ship Norfolk sailed from Savannah, on the 10th of July, 
with one hundred and forty recaptured Africans, and arrived 
at Liberia, on the 27th of August. Of this whole number, 
within one week after their arrival, not more than twenty re- 
mained an expense to the United States. They were taken by 
the older settlers into their families, for their services for two or 
three years; or were bound out for a reasonable time; or, when 
adult, hired out to receive equitable wages, at the year's end. 
And Mr. Ashmun's purpose was, as soon as they were prepared 
for it, to treat them, in all respects, as the other colonists. 

This was the last year of Mr. Ashmun's agency for the 
colony: and as if he had anticipated that his time was short, he 
appears to have been more active and energetic in his opera- 
tions, than ever. At one time, he had fully made up his mind 
to visit the United States, but pressing engagements led him to 
relinquish his purpose ; yet Providence had determined that his 
useful labours in Africa, should, this year, be brought to a close. 
The schooner of the colony having been driven on shore, in 
attempting to cross the bar, was seriously injured. Mr. Ash- 
mun, in attempting to save her, exposed himself for four hours, 
and thus contracted a rheumatic fever, from which, however, by 
the skilful prescription of Lot Gary, he recovered gradually; but 
being in a state of great debility, he was carried on board a ship 
going to Sierra Leone, that he might enjoy the benefit of the sea 
air. After his return, his health continued to be feeble ; but the 
business of his agency was increasing daily, so that if he had 
been in perfect health, he could not have attended to all the con- 
cerns which pressed upon him. Indeed it is evident that he 
sacrificed his valuable life to the interests of the colony. 

Early in the year, 1828, he made a fatiguing visit to the fac- 
tories south of Monrovia; and on his return, found the com- 
manders of several vessels waiting to settle concerns of business, 
and hasten their departure. The same evening the brig Doris 
arrived from Baltimore, with one hundred and seven emigrants, 
principally from Maryland ; sixty-two of them liberated slaves. 
This arrival was on the 14th of January, 1828. And on the 
17th arrived the schooner Randolph, from South Carolina, and 
twenty-six slaves, manumitted by a single individual. And on 
the 19th of February, the brig Nautilus, fifty-four days from 
Hampton Roads, with one hundred and sixty emigrants ; mostly 
from the lower counties of North Carolina. There were now. 



228 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

at one time, six vessels in port, requiring the attention of the 
agent. In regard to the pressure of business, Mr, Ashmun 
says, '' Such an accumulation of labour, I never felt before" — 
" Daj^s and nights are too short." And in addition, he had 
much trouble to defend the colony from a piratical, and strongly 
armed Spanish vessel, in which service he was much exposed. 
He was also, for three days and nights, continually engaged in 
negotiation, with the kings in the vicinity, which terminated 
in tiie conclusion, that a number of the colonists should occupy, 
without delay, the beautiful tract of country now bearing the 
honoured names of Mills and Burgess. This was succeeded 
by a laborious session of court, for two days. Thus he was occu- 
pied, until on the 5th of February, he was seized with a violent 
fever, which for a few days threatened his life ; but his recovery 
was rapid. Still, however, it was evident, that his enfeebled 
constitution must sink under the pressure of business devolving 
on him at the colony ; and his physician informed him that a 
visit to the United States had become necessary to the preserva- 
tion of his life, and the restoration of his health. Accordingly 
he embarked on board the Doris, and left Africa for ever. The 
passage was long, forty-seven days to St. Bartholomew's, in the 
West Indies, during which time, his sufferings were nearly 
indescribable, on account of bodily illness, so that sometimes 
he despaired of ever seeing land again. But on the 16th of 
May he arrived at. that island, but was unable to proceed 
farther. 

U])on leaving the colony, he committed all the weighty con- 
cerns of the agency to Mr. Lot Gary, already mentioned, as a 
preacher of the Baptist denomination, and a physician, who had 
become skilful by experience, combined with strong good sense. 
Mr. Ashmun arrived at New Haven on the 10th of August. 
But he had only reached his native land, that there he might 
breathe his last breath, and there have his mortal part deposited 
in its kindred earth. He expired, " gently, and in a moment," 
says his biographer, on the 25th of August, 1828, During his 
illness his mind appears to have been calm, and much occupied 
with spiritual and eternal concerns, as appears by the devo- 
tional papers written about this time, which he left behind. 

Thus fell another martyr to his zeal for African colonization. 
It seems to be the order of Providence, that every cause of real 
importance should be established and rise to prosperity only by 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 229 

costly sacrifices of human life. So it was with Christianity, the 
best of all causes ; and so it has ever been with the cause of 
civil liberty. Already our catalogue of martyrs to colonization 
is large for the time :— Mills, Bacon, Andrus, Sessions, Holton, 
Ashmun. 

Before concluding this chapter, we shall introduce some par 
ticulars which were omitted in the preceding narrative. 

Early in the year 1827, a treaty of peace was concluded be- 
tween the colonial agent and the principal chief of Trade Town, 
by which the parties were bound mutually, to maintain and 
encourage friendly intercourse and an equitable trade ; and to 
regard as inviolable, the persons and property of each other. 

About the same time, the factory at Young Sesters was sus- 
pended, in consequence of the depredations of the surrounding 
people; and especially on account of a war breaking out be- 
tween the people of this and Trade Town. Mr. Ashmun spent 
three days in endeavouring to reconcile the two parties; but in 
vain. This war, however, terminated more speedily than had 
been anticipated, and to the advantage of Freeman, the princi- 
pal chief of Sesters. 

During this year (1827) Mr. Ashmun founded an infirmary 
for invalids, on a plan which, while it secured to the aged, in- 
firm, and sick, the means of a comfortable subsistence, good at- 
tendance and medical aid, provided that such as were able to 
do any thing to help to support themselves and families, should 
have the opportunity. It was not intended, however, for emi- 
grants, suffering merely by a change of climate. 

The whole system of schools which had been suspended by 
the death of Mr. Holton, was re-organized under the care of the 
Rev. G. McGill, an experienced coloured teacher, from Balti- 
more. The schools were sufficiently numerous to receive all 
the children in the colony, and all were required to attend. 

The best method of providing for emigrants on their first 
coming out to Africa, had engaged much of Mr. Ashman's at- 
tention ; and the result of his thoughts was, that to purchase 
African provisions with trade goods was incomparably the 
most economical course that could be adopted. All emigrants 
should bring their tools ; but those who came unprovided should 
be supplied with them at the expense of the Society. That they 
should be provided with houses for a reasonable time ; and 
while on the sick list should be supported at the public expense. 
20 



230 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

It was Stated as an indisputable fact, that the aged emigrants 
are pecuUarly liable to fall victims to the African climate. Such, 
therefore, should not be encouraged to go out, as they, at best, 
can gain little by emigration. 

Objects of public utility were never lost sight of by this agent, 
and he exerted himself greatly to infuse public spirit into the 
minds of the colonists ; and not without good success. A com- 
pany was formed to improve the navigation of the river Mesu- 
rado, with shares amounting to one thousand dollars, with the 
privilege of increasing the stock to four thousand. 

No fact connected with the colony is more pleasing than the 
orderly and industrious behaviour of the recaptured Africans. 
Accustomed to the climate, and acquainted with the African 
methods of agriculture, they went on with but little interruption 
in the improvement of their grounds. 

In the month of December, 1829, the United States ship of 
war Ontario touched at the colony, on her return to the United 
States from the Mediterranean. Captain Nicholson had had 
the benevolent forethought to collect a variety of seeds on the 
borders of the Mediterranean, which he presented to the colo- 
ny, which donation was gratefully acknowledged by the colo- 
nial agent. When Captain Nicholson arrived in the United 
States, he gave a very favourable testimony of the contentment 
and general industry of the colonists. Every means was used 
to encourage the pursuits of agriculture, but still the strong in- 
clination of the colonists was more to commerce, on account of 
the speedy returns for their investments, and as being attended 
with less labour. 

At this time, by means of a coasting trade with the schooner 
of the colony, nearly the whole expense of the agency of the 
Board, and also that of the United States, had been defrayed. 
The net profits of this trade, during the year, amounted to little 
less than five thousand dollars. 

Much additional territory, of great value, had also been ob- 
tained during the last years of Mr. Ashmun's agency : and as 
many as eight stations had been so far secured as that the 
colonial government had the privilege of founding settlements 
at these points ; and the plan of the agent was, to open a farm 
at each of these stations. 

One of the colonists penetrated one hundred and forty miles 
into the interior, and found a numerous population, industrious 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 231 

and intelligent, possessed of a written language, with some 
knowledge of agriculture and the useful arts, and sharing 
largely in the comforts and enjoyments of social life. 

Mr. Ashmun attributed the success of the colony, in a great 
degree, to the Christian religion; the good effect of which he 
had heard of before, but had never seen realized, until its elfects 
on the colony of Liberia were manifested. 

We attempt no sketch of the character of Mr. Ashmun. The 
actions of his life, and his success in sustaining the colony of 
Liberia, have raised for him a monument more enduring than 
brass or marble. He needs no sculptured honours to preserve 
his memory from oblivion. As long as the colony of Liberia 
exists, or as long as its history is preserved, the name of Ash- 
mun will be famous. And when this infant colony shall have 
grown into a great republic, and shall have diffused the lights 
of religion and science over a benighted continent, no name 
will be more honoured than that of Jehudi Ashmun. 

The Board at Washington, were so impressed with convic- 
tion of the importance of Mr. Ashmun's services, and the excel- 
lence of his character, that they passed a resolution to have a 
handsome monument erected for him in New Haven, where 
his remains were deposited, and another in Monrovia, the scene 
of his incessant labours. 

AUhough we approve of such testimonies of respect to the 
real benefactors of their race — and such, undoubtedly, was Mr. 
Ashmun — yet we are of opinion, that Mr. Gurley has erected a 
more valuable, and a more lasting monument to his friend, by 
the ample Memoir of his Life with which he has favoured the 
public. We sincerely wish it were in our power to turn the 
attention of the public to this interesting and eloquent perform- 
ance. It has not yet ascended to its proper level among the 
biographies of the distinguished philanthropists of the age. 
And we take this opportunity of acknowledging how much we 
have been indebted to this work in compiling this History of 
African Colonization. Indeed, our temptation was to extract 
much more from this interesting volume than would have been 
compatible with the nature of this work. But as we have de- 
rived much instruction and pleasure from Mr. Gurley's Life of 
Ashmun ourselves, we cannot do less than cordially recom- 
mend it to all our readers. Few men have furnished such am- 
ple materials for biography in so short a life; and few could 



232 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

have used such materials more skilfully than the author — than 
whom no one has more imperious claims on the respect of the 
friends of this noble and benevolent enterprise. 

We shall conclude this chapter by noticing several tilings 
relating to the society at home, which were omitted for the 
sake of preserving the thread of the narrative of Ashmun's 
administration uninterrupted. 

At the annual meeting of the American Colonization Society, 
in February, 1S24, General Robert Goodloe Harper, a gentleman 
well known in the political world and at the bar, attended and 
took a prominent part in the business of the society. And this 
was not an occasional and temporary paroxysm of zeal in this 
distinguished man; but ever after, as long as he lived, he yield- 
ed to none of the friends of Colonization, in active, persevering 
efforts, to promote the interests of the society. 

On this occasion, he arose and addressed the meeting to the 
following effect: 

"Mr. President, — I will call the attention of the society 
to a matter of some, though not, perhaps, of very great mo- 
ment. It is to the proposition for giving a name to our African 
colony. Names are at all times matters of convenience, and 
sometimes of advantage. Our colony has at present no name. 
It is situated, indeed, near a Cape called Mesurado, and has 
hitherto taken its name and designation from this circumstance; 
but that is not a name appropriate to its object; a name that 
means nothing. In reflecting on this circumstance, I have 
thought of a name that is peculiar, short, and familiar, and that 
expresses the object and nature of the establishment. It is the 
term, Liberia, and denotes a settlement of persons made free; 
for our colony may with truth be called the home and country 
oi freedmen, in contradistinction to those slaves, of whom they 
once formed a part. This name, if I mistake not, will be 
found easy and apt, and it certainly has the merit of being 
very concise." 

This proposal was then submitted in the form of a motion, 
and unanimously adopted. He then rose again, and after pay- 
ing a handsome and deserved compliment to President Monroe, 
offered another resolution, — "That the town laid out and 
established at Liberia, be called and known by the name, 
Monrovia," which was also unanimously adopted. General 
Harper then addressed the society in an eloquent speech, the 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 233 

object of which was to show, that the grand object which they 
had in view could not be accompUshed by merely private 
funds and voluntary associations ; but that, in an enterprise so 
humane and patriotic, the aid of Congress should be earnestly 
and respectfully sought. At the close of his speech, therefore, 
he offered a resolution, "That a respectful memorial be pre- 
sented to Congress, on the part of the society, stating the pro- 
gress that has been made in establishing a colony of the people 
of colour, at Liberia ; and praying for aid from the national 
Government, in the prosecution of this great and national un- 
dertaking." 

General Mercer, who has been among the earliest and most 
efficient friends of colonization, gave his views on the state and 
prospects of the colonization scheme ; but was of opinion, that 
it would not be expedient to apply to Congress at present. 
After some further discussion, it was finally concluded, that 
the resolution offered by General Harper should be referred to 
a committee of five, to inquire into the expediency of an imme- 
diate application to Congress, and to report at a subsequent 
meeting, to be held in March. 

Dr. Ayres, on his first return to the United States from 
Africa, exerted himself much to excite an interest among the 
people, in favour of colonization. In company with the Rev. 
Mr. Boyd, of the Episcopal church, he took a tour through 
New England, to promote this desirable object. Every where 
he gave an interesting statement to the public, of the urgent 
wants of the colony; and of the absolute necessity of its being 
speedily strengthened, to prevent its utter destruction. This 
journey was attended with many advantages to the cause; 
especially by diffusing correct information relative to the state 
of things in Africa. The Board, also, in their Sixth Report, 
appealed to the benevolence of the public for contributions to 
enable them, at that critical moment, when the very existence 
of the colony was in jeopardy, to preserve the enterprise from 
absolute destruction. They say, "At this crisis of intense in- 
terest, when the weakness of the colony renders it exposed to 
disasters; when causes which could not impair a firmer estab- 
lishment, may work its destruction; when the momentous 
question is. Shall Africa be freed, enlightened, saved, or shall 
all her hopes be extinguished, perhaps for ever ? the Board 
20* 



234 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

cannot believe, that they shall be denied the liberal contribu- 
tions of their countrymen. They trust, that the editors of public 
papers and literary journals will aid their design, by diffusing 
correct information concerning it; that the patriot will think of 
his country, and give it his influence; and that all the ministers 
of religion will plead for it, in the name of Heaven." 

In the Seventh Annual Report of the Board to the Society, 
we are informed, that after much difficulty and delay, they at 
length succeeded in chartering a vessel, and collecting emi- 
grants. The brig Oswego, Captain Wightman, was the vessel 
obtained by the Board, to carry out the emigrants, sixty-one iu 
number, and the stores for the colony which they were able to 
provide. Dr. Ayres, whose previous exertions had been so 
important, consented to return. 

Just as the Oswego was ready to sail, information of a very 
alarming kind was received from the colony, relative to the 
hostile attack of the natives, of which an account has already 
been given. The reason for mentioning it here is, to give a 
proof of the candour, honesty, and good-will of the Board 
towards the emigrants whom they had collected to send out. 
They observe — "that duty as well as policy demanded that it 
should not be concealed; that those who were about to link all 
their temporal interests with the establishment in Africa, should 
not be left ignorant of its condition and prospects," A full 
statement was therefore made of all the facts which had come 
to the knowledge of the Board. They were plainly told that 
trials, perhaps death, stood in their way: "that a colony in 
Africa could only survive, through the efforts of energetic, pa- 
tient, and fearless men; that regrets would be too late, when 
they were landed on a distant shore; but that they were now 
at full liberty to remain in this country." It is recorded as an 
honourable instance of resolution, that no change was expressed 
in the purpose of a single individual. 

The Oswego sailed from Baltimore, on the 16th of April, and 
arrived at Cape Mesurado on the 24th of May. The joy pro- 
duced in the colony by the arrival of this reinforcement, cannot 
be described. Soon, however, their trials commenced. Sick- 
ness attacked the new colonists; and it was an unfavourable 
circumstance, that Dr. Ayres himself was among the first at- 
tacked by the disease, in consequence of which the others were 
deprived of his medical skill and services. The mortality, 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 235 

however, was not remarkably great. Only eight persons out 
of the whole died. And the Board were not discouraged by all 
the disasters and losses which had been sustained. By compar- 
ing Liberia with Plymouth, they found that the circumstances 
of the Puritan Pilgrims were much more disheartening, than any 
thing which had yet occurred in their colony. They remark, 
that, "since the origin of the society, two hundred and twenty- 
five emigrants, exclusive of those now on their passage, in the 
ship Cyrus, have sailed to Africa, under the patronage of the 
Board. The census received, with the last letters from Dr. 
Ayres, states the number then at the colony to be one hundred 
and forty. Let it not be supposed, that this diminution of num- 
bers, has resulted from mortality alone. Previous to the pur- 
chase of Cape Mesurado, several discontented individuals 
abandoned the colony and settled at Sierra Leone, others re- 
turned to this country. Information of forty-six deaths only 
has been received by the Board. That more have occurred, 
the Board have no reason to believe. Twenty-two of these 
were among the passengers in the Elizabeth, the first vessel 
sent by the society to Africa, and occurred soon after her arrival, 
near the commencement of the rains, through the unheal thiness 
of the spot on which, for a season, they were compelled to re- 
side; and various other causes, by which future emigrants can 
never be aftected." 

The last year, 1823, may be considered the critical year for 
the colony : its perils were never so great, and never can be 
again, from the same cause. At home the prospects of the 
society were unfavourable, and the funds exhausted. But in 
this report, they say, "The evidences of public favour which 
the Board have received during the year, have afforded the 
highest encouragement, and they can no longer doubt, that a 
general knowledge of their plans, will be succeeded by the 
common, vigorous eff'orts of the country to execute them, and 
that the design of the Colonization Society, notwithstanding the 
opposition it has experienced, will be consummated by the con- 
tinued energies of a nation, and approved by the civilized world. 
A thousand powerful minds scattered through the Union, are 
at work for this institution. The objects which it is intended to 
promote, are every where becoming subjects of thought and 
conversation, and the spirit of deep concern for its result is 



236 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

rapidly extending, securing to it the counsels of wisdom, the 
donations of wealth, and the prayers of religion,"* 

In the year 1825, the expressions of public opinion in favour 
of the Colonization Society, both from distinguished individuals 
and public bodies, became more explicit and decided than ever 
before. The Baptist Board of Foreign Missions passed a resolu- 
tion, in which they declared their cordial a])probation of the ob- 
jects of the American Colonization Society; expressed their plea- 
sure at the success which had attended the effort to establish a 
colony at Liberia, in Africa; and earnestly recommended it to 
their brethren to patronize it ; and when practicable, make collec- 
tions for its funds. The General Assembly of the Presbyterian 
Church, at their annual meeting, expressed their " high gratifica- 
tion at the progress of the American Colonization Society," 
which they call, " a great work of humanity and religion." 
They did not hesitate to say, that they believed, "that the tem- 
poral prosperity and moral interests of an extensive section of 
our country, of a numerous, degraded, and miserable class of 
men in the midst of us, and of the vast continent of Africa, un- 
civilized and unchristianized, are ultimately connected with the 
success of this institution. They therefore resolved, unani- 
mously, to recommend to the churches under their care, to pa- 
tronize the objects of the American Colonization Society, and 
particularly, that they take up collections in aid of its funds, on 
the fourth of July, or on the Sabbath immediately preceding 
or succeeding that day: and where that might be thought inex- 
pedient, to give their assistance, in such manner as might be 
most conducive to the interests of the society." 

The General Synod of the Protestant Reformed Dutch Church, 
resolved to recommend to the churches under their care, the 
American Colonization Society; and also, wherever meet- 
ings should be held on the fourth day of July, they earnestly 
recommended that collections be made in behalf of this insti- 
tution. 

At the annual Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church 
in Virginia, a resolution was passed, declaring, that the Conven- 
tion had witnessed with the deepest emotions of gratitude to God, 
the success with which it hath pleased him to bless the efforts of 
the American Colonization Society; that they observe with 

* Seventh Report, page 23, 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 237 

pleasure an increasing interest in its prosperity every where 
manifested, throughout the Union. They, therefore, recom- 
mended continued and increasing exertions in its favour, and 
that collections be made in the respective churches under their 
care, on the fourth of July, or on the Sabbath immediately pre- 
ceding that day. 

A flourishing colonization society had been formed in New 
Hampshire, embracing some of the most considerable men in 
the State, both lay and clerical. At the anniversary of this 
auxiliary, the Rev. Dr. Daniel Dana delivered an elegant ad- 
dress, which was published. The sentiments which it contains 
are in perfect harmony with the principles on which the Ame- 
rican Colonization Society was founded. 

In this same year the Rev. Dr. Meade delivered an animated 
address to a crowded audience in Winchester, Virginia. This 
gentleman has already received honourable mention, as one of 
the earliest and most efficient friends of the American Coloniza- 
tion Society; to which we may now add, that his whole fa- 
mily participate in his zeal and benevolence in promoting this 
good cause, of which they have given to the world the most 
substantial evidence. 

The society found another able, zealous, and eloquent advo- 
cate, in the Rev. Leonard Bacon, of New Haven. This gen- 
tleman first distinguished himself as the enlightened and cordial 
friend of colonization, in a review of the Reports of the Socie- 
ty, which embodied in an eloquent style the principal transac- 
tions of the society, up to the time when it was written. This 
able review was first published in the Christian Spectator, 
but was copied from that work into various other periodicals, 
and was read every where by the friends of colonization, with 
peculiar interest and pleasure. During the current year, (1825) 
Mr. Bacon came forward again with "A Plea for Africa." 
This work, though not comprehending so much information as 
his " Review," yet is written with more animation and ele- 
giance. Some passages, in which he describes the miseries of 
Africa, are truly touching, and eloquent. Among his conclud- 
ing sentences are these: "The voice of public opinion in favour 
of this enterprise is becoming louder and louder. In every sec- 
tion of our country the ministers of Jesus have been pleading 
for it to-day. From hundreds of churches the cry of supplica- 
tion has gone up in its behalf. And not a few are the freemen 



238 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

who, in the midst of their rejoicings to-day, have remembered 
the miseries of Africa, and offered their contributions for her 
reUef. Can you withhold from such an enterprise your voice 
of approbation ? Can you, if you pray for any thing — can you 
refuse to pray for this undertaking ? Can you look round on 
the abundance wherewith God has blessed you, and refuse to 
bestow some httle offering on such a cause ?" 

It is pleasant to be able to record, that the torrent of aboli- 
tionism which has swept away so many of the former friends 
of colonization, has produced no unfavorable effect on this gen- 
tleman. He continues to be the warm friend of this only plau- 
sible and practicable scheme for the amelioration of the condi- 
tion of the African race, either here or on the continent of 
Africa. 

Auxiliary societies sprang up so fast, that it would be tedious, 
as it is unnecessary, to name them all : and even in remote parts 
of the country, speeches were delivered and published, which 
did credit to the speakers, and evinced, beyond a doubt, that 
the talent and eloquence of the country were enlisted in this 
cause. 

The Society received much encouragement also from the 
fact, that the hopes entertained that many conscientious persons 
would embrace the opportunity to emancipate their slaves, 
began to be realized. Nathaniel C. Crenshaw, near Richmond, 
Virginia, informed the society of his wish to send his slaves to 
Liberia. And the Rev. Cave Jones, a chaplain in the United 
States navy, manumitted two men of colour, and directed them 
to be delivered to the society, in order that they might take 
passage to the colony at Liberia. 

The society also received some seasonable donations of arti- 
cles peculiarly suited to the wants of the infant colony. Among 
these, one deserves a particular notice, from Mr. E. S. Thomas, 
of Baltimore. This gentleman had with great pains collected 
a large quantity of seeds, which he presented to the Coloniza- 
tion Society; among which were no less than twelve hundre'd 
pounds of turnip seed, of various sorts. A more appropriate 
present for a young colony could not have been devised. 

The American Board of Foreign Missions began to turn its 
attention to Africa as a missionary field. They authorized the 
Prudential Committee to admit the descendants of Africa into 
the Foreign Mission School, which was then in successful ope- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 239 

ration at Cornwall, Connecticut, with a view to their prepara- 
tion for missionary labours on the coast of Africa. They also 
resolved to recommend to the committee to establish a mission 
in Africa, as soon as they shall find it practicable, and be able 
to make the requisite preparations. 

Legislative bodies, also, had their attention turned to the sub- 
ject of making some provision for emancipated slaves in a suit- 
able colony. 

The Hon. Rufus King, a Senator of the United States from 
New York, submitted for consideration to the august body of 
which he was a member, a resolution, that after the public debt 
was paid, all the proceeds of the sales of public land should 
constitute a fund to aid the emancipation of such slaves within 
the United States, and to aid in their removal, and the removal 
of such free persons of colour as by the laws of any of the States 
may be allowed to be removed, to any territory or country 
without the limits of the United States of America. 

Mr. Tucker, of Virginia, March 2d, made a motion in Con- 
gress, that the Secretary of War be requested to ascertain the 
probable expense of extinguishing the Indian title to a por- 
tion of the country lying west of the Rocky Mountains, that 
may be suitable for colonizing the free people of colour, &c. 

The State of Virginia, as early as 1S16, as we have already 
seen, requested the Executive of the State to correspond with 
the President of the United States on the subject of obtaining a 
territory on the coast of Africa, or upon the shore of the North 
Pacific, or at some other place not within any of the States or 
Territories of the United States, to serve as an asylum for such 
people of colour as are now free, and may desire the same, and 
for those who may hereafter be emancipated within the Com- 
monwealth of Virginia. 

The State of Maryland, in ISIS, by their Legislature, resolv- 
ed unanimously, that the Governor be requested to communi- 
cate to the members of both Houses of Congress from Mary- 
land, the opinion of the Legislature, that « a wise and provident 
policy suggests the expediency, on the part of our National 
Government, of procuring, by negotiation, by cession, or pur- 
chase, a tract of country on the Western coast of Africa, for the 
colonization of the free people of colour of the United States." 

A similar resolution was also passed by the Legislature of the 
State of Tennessee. 



240 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

The Legislature of New Jersey also adopted a resolution, 
that in their opinion a system of foreign colonization, with cor- 
respondent measures, might be adopted, that would, in due 
time, effect the entire emancipation of the slaves of our country, 
and furnish an asylum for the free blacks, without any viola- 
tion of the national compact, or infringement of the rights of 
individuals. 

The State of Connecticut adopted resolutions very similar to 
those of New Jersey; concluding with the expression of an 
opinion, " That a system of colonization, under the patronage 
of the National Government, might be deemed conducive to 
the desirable end of freeing the country from the evils of 
slavery." 

During their sessions in 1S24, the Legislature of Ohio re- 
commended the gradual abolition of slavery, in connexion 
with a system of foreign colonization. 

In May, 1828, the General Conference of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, passed the following resolutions: 

1. " That this Conference highly approve of the objects pro- 
posed, and the measures taken, by the American Colonization 
Society, in reference to the colonization of the free people of 
colour, on the coast of Africa. 2. That this Conference look to 
the settlement of Liberia, as opening a door for the diffusion of 
all the benign influences of the gospel over the continent of 
Africa; and, therefore, recommend it to our ministers and 
membership, to aid by their exertions and influence in the 
formation and support of auxiliary societies, and the making 
collections to aid in carrying on the benevolent designs of the 
parent institution. 3. That the Secretary be, and he is hereby 
instructed, to communicate the foregoing resolutions to the 
Board of Managers of the American Colonization Society." 

Among the warm friends of African colonization, we have 
the pleasure of recording the name of that distinguished friend 
of liberty and of America, General Lafayette. In a letter, dated 
Lagrange, November 29, 1829, this venerable and beloved 
man observes, " I am delighted to hear, that the accounts from 
our very interesting Liberia, are so satisfactory. The honour 
I have received, in being elected an officer of the society, no 
one could more highly value." 

In the same year, the Legislature of Pennsylvania passed a 
resolution in favour of the American Colonization Society, both 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 241 

houses concurring with great unanimity. After a preamble of 
some length, they adopted the following: 

"i^e // resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives 
of the Cotnmonwealth of Pennsylvania, in General Jlssembly 
7net: That in the opinion of this General Assembly, the Amer- 
ican Colonization Society eminently deserves the support of the 
National Government, and that our Senators be directed, and 
the Representatives in Congress be requested, to aid the same, 
by all proper and constitutional means." 



CHAPTER XVI. 

LOTT GARY—MISSIONS IN AND NEAR THE COLONY. 

When Mr. Ashmun's health was so impaired that he was 
under the necessity of leaving Liberia, to which place he was 
never permitted to return, he left the colony in the charge of 
the Rev. Lott Gary, of whom mention has frequently been 
made already. But as he was among the earliest colonists, 
and a very extraordinary man for his opportunities, I propose, 
in this chapter, to give a sketch of his life.* 

Lott Cary was born a slave, about the year 1780, thirty 
miles below the city of Richmond, in Virginia. His father 
was an eminently pious member of the Baptist denomination; 
and his mother, though not a member of any visible church, 
was believed by her acquaintances, to be truly pious. He was 
their only child. It may be inferred from the character of his 
parents, that he was trained up under the influence of sotmd 
religious and moral principles, but of his early life no memo- 
rials remain. In the year 1804, when just four-and-twenty 
years of age, he was removed to the city of Richmond, and 
employed as a common labourer, in the Shockoe tobacco ware- 
house. At that time, his habits were rather irregular; he was 
frequently intoxicated, and had contracted the vicious habit of 
profane swearing; and for two or three years after his coming 

* The autlior is indebted for this sketch of the early history of Cary to the 
Memoir of him, by the Rev. J. B. Taylor. 
21 



242 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to Richmond, he appeared evidently to increase in wickedness. 
But he was a chosen vessel of divine mercy, and destined to 
act an important part in one of the noblest enterprises of the 
present day. Having been led to the discovery of his ruined 
condition as a rebel against the skies, he turned to the Lord 
with full purpose of heart, and was baptized by Elder John 
Courtney, and was received as a member, in the first Baptist 
church in Richmond, in the year 1807. 

Lott Gary, though endowed with strong natural powers, 
was at the time of his conversion, extremely ignorant, not 
knowing a single letter of the alphabet. But hearing his 
minister read the discourse of our Lord to Nicodemus, he was 
seized with an earnest desire to learn to read, and did not 
cease until he had accomplished his purpose ; and soon after- 
wards, he learned to write. About this time, he began to hold 
meetings with the coloured people of Richmond, and to' exhort 
sinners to 'flee from the wrath to come:' the church observing 
that he had gifts to be useful as a public speaker, encouraged 
him to exercise them in preaching the gospel. 

Having now the treasures of English literature unlocked to 
him, by the acquisition of the art of reading, he was not back- 
ward in availing himself of every opportunity of improving 
his mind, by such works as fell in his way. And his reading 
was not confined to such books as those of his class commonly 
peruse, but he extended his reading to History and Political 
Economy. A gentleman once entered his apartment, and 
found that he had been engaged in reading Smith's Wealth 
of Nations. He was also much engaged in preaching the 
gospel, not only in Richmond, but in all the surrounding 
country. His services at the tobacco warehouse were highly 
valued. Every thing with which he had any thing to do, was 
put in perfect order ; so that if any one of the hundreds of 
hogsheads under his care, was called for, he could at any 
moment, produce it. This promptitude and order were of 
great importance in the shipments of tobacco. He often 
received rewards from the merchants, which he carefully hus- 
banded and increased, by making small ventures of unmer- 
chantable tobacco on his own account. By the year 1813, he 
had acquired a sum sufficient to buy his own liberty, and that 
of two of his children. The sum paid was eight hundred and 
fifty dollars. His first wife was dead, at this time, and in 
1815, he married a second. He now received a regular 




HISTORV OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 243 

salary, which was increased from year to year, until it amount- 
ed to eight hundred dollars. 

About this time, Lott Gary became deeply affected with the 
unhappy condition of the people of Africa, and took pains to 
stir up a lively interest among his brethren in and about Rich- 
mond, in relation to the spiritual condition of these people. 
This led to the formation of an African Missionary Society in 
Richmond, which contributed annually, for several years, from 
one hundred to one hundred and fifty dollars, towards the sup- 
port of the African mission. But his active and benevolent 
mind could not be satisfied with the mere contribution of a part 
of his earnings. The desire to go in person, and carry the 
blessed gospel to that benighted region was like a fire in his 
bones. A great struggle was experienced between this pious 
and disinterested desire and his personal interests. He was 
now the possessor of a snug little farm in the vicinity of Rich- 
mond, was receiving a handsome salary, and his reputation as 
high as he could wish. Besides, he was the object of universal 
affection as a preacher, among the people of his own colour. 
There were also some discouraging circumstances in relation to 
Africa. The facilities for labouring there were few, and the 
climate was sickly: but none of these things could deter him 
from engaging in this benevolent enterprise. When asked by 
a brother in the ministry, how he could think of quitting a sta- 
tion of so much comfort and usefulness, to encounter the dan- 
gers of an African climate, and hazard every thing, to plant a 
colony on a distant shore, his reply was, " I am an African; 
and in this country, however meritorious my conduct, and re- 
spectable my character, I cannot receive the credit due to either. 
I wish to go to a country where I shall be estimated by my me- 
rits—not by my complexion; and I feel bound to labour for my 
suffering race." When his employers understood that he con- 
templated a removal, they offered to raise his salary to one 
thousand dollars; but this had no effect on his fixed determi- 
nation. 

As soon as the journal of the exploring tour of Messrs. Mills 
and Burgess was pubUshed, the purpose of Lott Gary and Gol- 
lin Teage was immediately made up to emigrate to Africa. 
This latter also lived in Richmond, and had by great exertion 
and economy, raised thirteen hundred dollars for the redemption 
of himself, a son, and a daughter. Collin Teage had, like Gary, 
received no education in early life; but he had learned the busi- 



244 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

ness of a saddler and harness-maker, and by his own efforts had 
learned to read and write indifferently well. But he was a man 
of keen penetration, and possessed a mind capable of high im- 
provement, of which he has given full evidence since he was 
settled in Africa. 

These two men first offered themselves as missionaries to go 
to Africa, under the direction of the Baptist General Conven- 
tion ; and at the same time made application to the American 
Colonization Society to go out under their patronage. Various 
circumstances delayed their departure until January, 1821. 
Teage was also a preacher to his own colour, and was often 
associated with Lott Cary in preaching excursions into the 
country. Both of them now received ordination accordnig to 
the usages of the Baptist denomination; and upon the eve of 
their departure, Elder Cary delivered a farewell discourse to 
the people of colour in Richmond, which is said to have been a 
sermon of great eloquence. His text was Rom. viii. 32. In 
the conclusion of his discourse he became very pathetic; and, 
among other things, said, " I am about to leave you, and ex- 
pect to see your faces no more. I long to preach to the poor 
Africans the way of life and salvation. I do not know what may 
befall me— whether I may find a grave in the ocean, or among 
the savage men, or more savage wild beasts on the coast of 
Africa; nor am I anxious what may become of me. I feel it 
to be my duty to go; and I very much fear that many of those 
who preach the gospel in this country, will blush when the Sa- 
viour calls them to give an account of their labours in this 
cause, and tells them, ' I commanded you to go into all the 
■world, and preach the gospel to every creature.' " And with 
the most thrilling emphasis, looking round on his audience, he 
exclaimed, "The Saviour may ask — Where have you been? — 
what have you been doing? Have you been endeavouring to 
the utmost of your ability to fulfil the commands I gave you? 
Or have you sought your own gratification, and your own ease, 
regardless of my commands?" 

These two devoted men left Richmond, January 23d, 1821, 
and sailed in the Nautilus for the coast of Africa. The parting 
scene, at Richmond, v/as very affecting. Cary united dignity 
with tenderness; and manifested a spirit becoming one who 
was to sustain the character of a missionary of the cross. There 
was a moral sublimity in the spectacle; for he was actually 
making a sacrifice of all his worldly interests, and was prepared 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 245 

for death as well as life. They reached their destination after 
a voyage of forty-four days. Good order was preserved on 
board during the whole time that they were at sea, and Capt. 
Blair treated his passengers with humanity and attention. 

At the time of Gary's arrival at Sierra Leone, the Coloniza- 
tion Society had obtained no place for a permanent settlement; 
but at the close of this year (1821) Cape Mesurado was pur- 
chased from the natives. Messrs. Cary and Teage therefore re- 
mained at Sierra Leone, and having exhausted their resources 
in preparing for the voyage, they soon found themselves in dif- 
ficult circumstances, Lott Carj;-, to provide for present, urgent 
wants, engaged in the business of a cooper, and made tubs, 
buckets, &c., which he sold at Free Town for the support of his 
family. But he was not unmindful of the great object, to pro- 
mote which he had made such sacrifices. He not only preach- 
ed, as he had opportunity, among the colonists, but established 
a mission among the Mandingoes. But he was again called to 
suffer a severe affliction in the loss of his wife, who died while 
he resided at Sierra Leone. This was, indeed, a sore bereave- 
ment; but he iiad the satisfaction of knowing that she departed 
in the exercise of a lively faith, and an assured hope of ever- 
lasting life. 

In 1822, he removed' his family to Cape Mesurado, and be- 
came one of the most active and influential members of that 
little community. The native tribes repenting of the sale of 
the land on the cape, meditated the destruction of the colony, 
and after Ashmun, its salvation was owing to the exertions of 
none so much as those of Lott Cary. The general agent has 
given the following character of this remarkable man, " On his 
arrival in Africa, he saw before him a wide, and interesting field, 
demanding various, and energetic talents, and the most devoted 
piety. His intellectual ability, firmness of purpose, unbending 
integrity, correct judgment, and disinterested benevolence, soon 
placed him in a conspicuous station, and gave him wide, and 
commanding influence. Though naturally diffident and retiring, 
his worth was too evident to allow of his continuance in obscu- 
rity. It is well known, that great difficulties were encountered 
in founding a settlement at Cape Mesurado. So appalling were 
the circumstances of the first settlers, that soon after they had 
taken possession of the Cape, it was proposed that they should 
remove to Sierra Leone. The resolution of Mr. Cary, was not 
21* 



246 HISTORY OP AFniCAN COLONIZATION. 

to be shaken: he determined to stay, and his decision had great 
effect in persuading others to imitate his example. During the 
war with the native tribes, in November and December, 1S22, 
he proved to be one of the bravest of men, and but for his well 
directed and vigorous support to the measures of Mr. Ashmun, 
during that memorable defence of the colony, the consequences 
might have been disastrous. It was to him that Mr. Ashmun 
was principally indebted for assistance, in rallying the broken 
forces of the colony, at a moment, when fifteen hundred of the 
exasperated natives were rushing forward to exterminate the 
settlement. 

"Gary, in one of his letters, compares the little exposed com- 
pany at Mesurado, at that time, to the Jews, who in rebuilding 
their city grasped a weapon in one hand, while they laboured 
with the other; but adds, emphatically, there never has been an 
hour, nor a minute, no not even when the balls were flying 
around my head, when I could wish myself again in America." 

In defect of regular medical aid, Lott Gary applied his power- 
ful mind to this subject; and for a considerable time, he was 
almost entirely occupied in visiting the sick, and administering 
medicine to them. And it has been generally admitted, that he 
was remarkably successful in his practice. 

The only single part of his conduct which deserves to be 
censured, was his taking part in the seditious proceedings of a 
number of persons, who became dissatisfied with the Goloni- 
zation Society, and refused obedience to the orders of Mr. Ash- 
mun, the agent. In fact, they set all law at defiance, and went, 
and by force took from the public stores, whatever they wanted. 
Gary, doubtless, had a leading influence in these seditious pro- 
ceedings. But when Mr. Ashmun addressed to them a solemn 
appeal or remonstrance, in which he forcibly represented the 
iniquity, and destructive tendency of their proceedings, Lott 
Gary, convinced of the impropriety of his conduct, came to the 
agent, and ingenuously confessed his error; after which, he was 
ever found among the firm supporters of law and order. These 
mutinous proceedings were owing to very peculiar and critical 
circumstances, which if they could be fully explained, would 
go far to extenuate the misguided conduct of Gary, and others, 
in this affair. But as Mr. Ashmun's confidence was imme- 
diately and fully restored, it is judged to be expedient, to bury- 
in oblivion all the circumstances of this unpleasant transaction. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 247 

Lott Gary, though necessarily much occupied with tlie affairs 
of the colony and its defence, and with his practice as a physi- 
cian, yet did not neglect the main object of his mission. He 
not only laboured to promote the spiritual interests of the church 
at Monrovia; but gave instructions in the rudiments of the 
gospel to the Africans who had been recaptured from the slave- 
ships. And from letters addressed to his friends in Virginia, it 
appears, that religion was in a flourishing state in his church. 
His services as physician were especially valuable after the 
arrival of the Cyrus with one hundred and five emigrants. All 
these were seized with the fever, and our self-instructed physi- 
cian had his hands full; and what greatly enhances the value 
of his services, they were gratuitously bestowed on all who 
needed them, and were willing to accept them. 

His letters to his friends, during 1824, are full of interest, and 
contain an animated description of the affairs of the colony. la 
June, 1S25, he gives an account of the establishment of a mis- 
sionary school for native children, which was prosperous, and 
increasing in numbers. His attention was also particularly 
turned to Cape Mount, where he was solicitous that a school 
and mission should be established. 

In the midst of his public labours he found time to pay atten- 
tion to agricultural improvements. In one of his letters he says, 
" I have a promising little crop of rice and cassada, and have 
planted about a hundred and eighty coffee trees, this week, a 
part of which, I expect, will produce next season, as they are 
now in bloom. 1 think, sir, that in a very few years, we shall 
send you coffee of a better quality, than you have ever seen 
brought into your market. We find that trees of two species 
abound in great quantities on the Cape ; both of the large green 
coffee, of which I will send you a specimen by the first oppor- 
tunity." 

In the autumn of 1825, a request was received from the Board 
at Washington, that the Rev. Lott Cary should pay a visit to the 
United States. This accorded much with his feelings. He had 
it at heart to confer with friends in America; especially, with 
the Missionary Society of Richmond. On this occasion Mr. 
Ashmun furnished him with ample testimonials, in which his 
services to the colony are duly appreciated ; and a proper con- 
sideration of his medical services is strongly recommended to the 
Board; which, though they were rendered without fee or hope 



248 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

of reward, in equity ought not to be suffered to remain without 
remuneration. 

This visit, however, was disappointed, in consequence of the 
urgent demand for Mr. Gary's medical services; for of the 
late emigrants, many were siclc. Mr. Ashmun himself liad the 
utmost confidence in his medical skill, as appears by the fol- 
lowing testimony: "The prescriptions of our excellent and 
experienced assistant physician, the Rev. Lott Gary, under 
the blessing of Divine Providence, so far succeeded as to 
afford complete relief, only leaving one in a very emaciated 
and enfeebled state, about the end of the first week in July." 
Though Mr. Gary had declined all offices which would be 
likely to interfere with his ministerial and missionary labours, 
yet so high was the estimation in which he was held, that in 
September, 1S26, he was elected to fill the office of Vice-Agent. 
Indeed, all eyes were turned to him as the most fit person to 
fill that responsible office. His intrepidity, foresight, prudence, 
and firmness, eminently qualified him to sustain the govern- 
ment, and secure the welfare of the people. "In his good 
sense," says Mr. Gurley, "moral worth, public spirit, courage, 
resolution, and decision, the colonial agent had perfect confi- 
dence." 

After receiving the necessary books, and finding a suitable 
teacher, he went to Gape Mount, to prosecute his long contem- 
plated school at that place ; and after a palaver, the king and 
his chiefs unanimously gave their consent to the proposed insti- 
tution. And while there, he embraced the opportunity on the 
Sabbath, of preaching to the natives through an interpreter. 

In one of his letters to the Richmond Missionary Society, he 
urges them " to be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his 
might, for it seems as if the great flood-gate is about to be 
opened upon this part of Africa. One missionary arrived here 
in the Ontario, and he informs me, there are four following 
after him. He is all the way from Germany or Switzerland — 
of the Lutheran denomination. I do not know what to say, 
but I must say, American Ghristians ! look this way ! come 
this way ! and help, if you cannot come. Send help, for the 
Lord's sake. Help Africa's sons out of the devil's bush, into 
the kingdom of God. The harvest is already white. The 
heathen, in our vicinity, are very anxious for the means of 
hght. They will buy it— beg it— and sooner than miss of it, 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 249 

they will steal it." In confirmation of this last, he gives the 
folio wnig fact: "In removing our school establishment up to 
Cape Mount, I had upwards of forty natives to carry our bag- 
gage; and though they had every opportunity to commit 
depredations, nothing was lost, except fifteen spelling books." 

In the early part of the year 1S28, as was before related, 
Mr. Ashmun left Liberia for the United States, his physician 
having declared that such a step was necessary to his restora- 
tion. Under these circumstances, the whole government of 
the colony devolved on Lott Gary, Mr. Ashraun's confidence 
in his wisdom and integrity may be learned from his commu- 
nications to the Board. "I was enabled," says he, " to arrange 
the concerns of the colony with Mr. Gary, even to the minu- 
test particulars; and I have the greatest confidence that his 
administration will prove satisfactory in the highest degree, to 
the Board, and advantageous to the colony." And on his 
death-bed, Mr. Ashmun recommended that Mr. Gary should 
be permanently appointed to conduct the affairs of the colony. 
Mr. Gurley states, " that for six months after the departure 
of Mr. Ashmun from the colony, Mr. Gary stood at the head, 
and conducted himself with such energy and wisdom, as to do 
honour to his previous reputation, and fix the seal upon his 
enviable fame." 

Mr. Gary was not insensible of the magnitude of the charge 
which had devolved upon him; but he had a mind which rose 
m strength, in proportion to the pressure by which it was 
urged. 

It will be gratifying to learn from his private journal, what 
sentiments were entertained towards Mr. Ashmun. In describ- 
ing his departure, he says, "Never, I suppose, were greater 
tokens of respect shown by any community, on taking leave of 
their head. Nearly the whole (at least, two-thirds) of the 
inhabitants of Monrovia, men, women, and children, were out 
on this occasion; and nearly all parted from him, with tears; 
and in my opinion, the hope of his return in a few months, 
alone enabled them to give him up. He is indeed dear to his 
people, and it will be a joyful day when we are permitted to 
see him again." 

Mr. Gary now called together the principal officers of the 
colony, and read to them, without reserve, the instructions left 
him by Mr. Ashmun, and requested their cooperation. « I 



250 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

trust," says he, "through the great blessing of the Ruler of 
events, we shall be able to reaUze all the expectations of Mr. 
Ashmun, and render entire satisfaction to the Board of Mana- 
gers, if they can reconcile themselves to the necessary ex- 
penses." 

It will give some idea of Lott Gary's business talents, as 
well as of his enterprise and patriotism, to exhibit the follow- 
ing deed, which was executed to him, as agent for the colony, 
by several of the petty kings of the country: 

" Know all men by these presents, that we, Old King Peter, 
and King Governor, King James, and King Long Peter, do, on 
this fourth day of April, in the year of our Lord, one thousand 
eight hundred and twenty-eight, grant unto Lott Gary, Acting 
Agent of the colony of Liberia, in behalf of the American 
Colonization Society, to wit: All that tract of land on the 
north side of St. Paul's river, beginning at King James's line 
below the establishment, called the Millsburg Settlement; and 
we, the kings, as aforesaid, do bargain, sell, and grant, unto 
the said Lott Gary, acting in behalf of the American Coloni- 
zation Society, all the aforesaid tract of land, situated and 
bounded as follows : by the St. Paul's river on the south, and 
thence running an east, north-east direction up the St. Paul's 
river, as far as he, the said Lott Gary, or his successor in the 
agency or civil authority of the colony of Liberia shall think 
proper to take up and occupy; and bounded on the west, by 
King Jemmy's, and running thence a north-east direction, as 
far as our power and influence extend. We do, on this day 
and date, grant as aforesaid, for the consideration — [here follow 
the articles to be given in payment] — and will for ever defend 
the same against all claims whatever. 

"In witness whereof, we set our hands and names; 

" Old X King Peter, 
"Long X King Peter, 
" King X Governor, 
"King X James. 

" Signed in presence of 

"Elijah Johnson, 
" Frederick James, 
" Daniel George." 

Mr. Gary wisely judged, that much depended on the vigour 
and success with which agricultural pursuits were prosecuted. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 251 

He, therefore, took an early opportunity of visiting the settle- 
ments of Millsburg and Caldwell, and was on the whole well 
pleased with the prospects of a plentiful crop : but on examin- 
ation, he found that it would be necessary to allow the people 
to draw rations from the public stores, much longer than he 
had expected. He was also very attentive to such things as 
were required for the defence of the colony : the gun-house in 
Monrovia, and the jail, were soon finished, and the guns 
mounted. He also had suitable carriages made for the port- 
able guns. 

Towards the close of June, the colony was put into some 
commotion, by the appearance of three suspicious vessels in 
the bay. After a while, they hoisted Spanish colours, and 
one of them, a schooner, anchored within gun-shot. A gun 
was fired from the fort, which caused her boat to come on 
shore. They were from Havana, and professed not to be 
engaged in the slave trade. The reason assigned for coming 
so near, was to find shelter from one of the other vessels, a 
patriot brig, which had been for some time in pursuit of them. 
Gary did not believe a word that was said, and told them 
that he knew they were slavers ; and therefore* he refused to 
permit them to take in wood or water, and allowed them only 
one hour to get out of reach of the guns. 

Speaking of the celebration of the fourth of July, Mr. Gary 
remarks, " The companies observed strictly the orders of the 
day, which I think were so arranged as to entitle the officers 
who drew them up, to credit. Upon the whole, I am obliged 
to say, that I have never seen the American Independence cele- 
brated with so much spirit, and propriety, since the existence 
of the colony; the guns being all mounted and pointed, and 
previously arranged for the purpose, added very much to the 
grand salute. Two dinners were given, one by the Indepen- 
dent Volunteer company, and one by Captain Devany." 

Having understood that the American Colonization Society 
expected to send out a large reinforcement of emigrants, he was 
at his wit's end to know, how he should make provision for the 
accommodation of so many persons; but after a full considera- 
tion of all circumstances, he determined to settle them at Mills- 
burg, and assigned the following reasons : On account of the 
fertility of the lands and fewness of the inhabitants; and be- 
cause he believed that they vvould^by being sent so far into the 

'4 



252 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

country on the fresh water, experience little injury from the 
change of climate; and because he thought it expedient to 
strengtiien the colony on that point; for although no hostilities 
from the natives were apprehended, yet it was best to be, and 
appear to be, able to repel them. In his communication to the 
Board, he gives a very flattering account of the condition of the 
colony: " I am happy to say, that the health, peace, and pros- 
perity of the colony are, I think, still advancing; and I hope that 
the Board of Managers may have their expectations realized, to 
their fullest extent, with regard to the present and future pros- 
perity of the colony." 

Mr. Gary suggested to the Board the great importance of the 
colony having a vessel large enough to run down as far as Cape 
Palmas; which he was of opinion would save much expense to 
the society. This measure was urged by the consideration, 
that until the colony was able to raise provisions enough for its 
own consumption, it would be desirable to have the means of 
bringing them from a considerable distance, and not be depen- 
dent on the supplies from the immediate vicinity, which very 
often failed or were inadequate. 

In a letter to the Board of Managers, dated May 7th, 1823, 
he says, " There have been no very important changes either in 
the state or face of the colony, since Mr. Ashmun left us, ex- 
cept in the rapid progress of the farming establishments. As I 
visited all those establishments, during the second and third of 
May, I am happy to say, that the prospect for crops, the pre- 
sent season, is tenfold, and I think their settlements will be 
beyond the reach of suffering, before the close of the present 
season." He speaks of some of the late emigrants who had 
made astonishing progress in clearing land, and getting it plant- 
ed; so that their families would be rendered entirely comfort- 
able before the end of the season. 

It was, however, the peculiar trait of excellence in this man's 
character, that in the midst of pressing cares, and business of the 
most responsible nature, which had, in the providence of God, 
devolved upon him, he never lost sight of the main object which 
had brought him to Africa. His great object in emigrating to 
Africa was, to extend the power and blessings of the Ghrislian 
religion. Before he left Richmond, a little church of about 
half a dozen members was formed, who were to accompany 
him. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 253 

The names of these devoted colonists were Lott Gary and 
wife, ColHn Teage and wife and son Hilary Teage, and 
Joseph Langford and wife. These names deserve to stand out 
prominently in a history of colonization and missions in Africa. 
Lott Gary became the pastor of this church in Africa, and had 
the pleasure of seeing its members multiplied. Most earnestly 
did he seek access to the native tribes, and endeavour to instruct 
them in the doctrines and duties of that religion, which in his 
own case, " had proved so powerful to purify, exalt, and save." 
In one or two instances of hopeful conversion from heathenism, 
he greatly rejoiced; and many of his latest and most anxious 
thoughts were directed to the establishment of native schools, 
in the interior. One such school, distant seventy miles from 
Monrovia, and of great promise, was established through his 
agency, about a year before his death; and was patronized and 
supported byhim until that mournful event."* 

But we must now come to the unexpected, sad, and tragical 
close of a life so valuable, and which gave promise of increas- 
ing usefulness for years to come. There is nothing in the dis- 
pensations of divine providence more inscrutable, than that men 
eminently prepared for useful and important service to the 
church, and to their kind, are so frequently cut down in the 
midst of their labours, with their expected work only just com- 
menced. There may be a reason for this entirely out of our 
sight; and it may, for aught we know, be intimately connected 
with the prosperity of the enterprises to which they had de- 
voted themselves. Whether fanciful or not, it is a pleasing 
thought, that such men as Mills, Bacon, Ashmun, Gary, and 
other like spirits, are somehow still coadjutors in promoting the 
good work in which they sacrificed their lives. 

The circumstances of this deplorable event were the follow- 
ing, as given by Mr. Gurley. "The factory belonging to the 
colony at Digby (a few miles north of Monrovia) had been 
robbed by the natives; and satisfaction being demanded, was 
refused. A slave-trader was allowed to land her goods in the 
very house where the goods of the colony had been deposited, 
and a letter of remonstrance addressed to the slave-dealer, was 
actually intercepted and destroyed by the natives. In this state of 
affairs, Mr. Gary considered himself solemnly bound to assert 
the rights and defend the property of the colony. He therefore 

• Gurley. 
22 



254 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

called out instantly, the military of the settlements, and com- 
menced making arrangements to compel the natives to desist 
from their injurious, and unprovoked infringements upon the 
territory, and rights of the colony. On the evening of the 8th 
of November, while Mr. Gary and several others were making 
cartridges in the old agency-house, a candle appears to have 
been accidentally upset, which caught some loose powder, and 
almost instantaneously, reached the entire ammunition, pro- 
ducing an explosion, which resulted in the death of eight per- 
sons. Six of these unfortunate persons, survived until the 
ninth, and Mr. Gary, and one other, until the tenth." 

As soon as the intelligence of Gary's death reached the 
United States, a melancholy impression pervaded the public 
mind ; but especially affected the minds of the friends of Liberia. 

The following tribute to the memory of this excellent man 
was drawn up by those who were best acquainted with him, 
and in whose service he continued until his death : — the Rich- 
mond African Missionary Society. It was read and adopted at 
their annual meeting in 1829, and its truth and justice will be 
evident to all who have perused the history of his life. 

" The loss which has been sustained, cannot in our estima- 
tion, be easily repaired. This excellent man seems to have been 
raised up by divine providence, for the special purpose of taking 
an active part in the management of the infant settlement. 
His discriminating judgment, his honesty of heart, and decision 
of character, qualified him eminently, for this service. But, 
especially, in relation to your society, is his death to be sincere- 
ly lamented. It will be recollected, that he was a principal 
instrument in the origin of this society, and for several years 
acted as its recording secretary. A little more than eight years 
ago, he received his appointment, and sailed, as missionary, in 
company with brother Teage, for the land of their forefathers. 
His exertions as a minister in that land have been of the most 
devoted and untiring kind. In the communications which have 
been received by the Board, he seemed to possess the most 
anxious concern for the salvation of the perishing multitudes 
around him. Through his instrumentality a considerable church 
has been collected together, which seems to be in a prosperous 
and growing condition. Sabbath and week day schools have 
been instituted for the instruction of native children and the 
children of the colony, which have proved eminently useful. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 255 

We were looking forward with confidence to the more perfect 
consummation of our wishes, when that moral desert should 
rejoice and blossom as the rose; but God has seen fit to cross 
our expectations, in calling from his station this laborious mis- 
sionary. It becomes us to bow with submission to the stroke, 
and to realize the saying of the apostle, ' how unsearchable are 
his judgments, and his ways past finding out.' Although we 
were not permitted to receive his dying testimony to the truth, 
we have the fullest assurance that our loss is his unspeakable 
and eternal gain." 

While we are faithfully recording the labours and services of 
the ardent friends of this blessed cause, in Africa, we ought not 
to pass over in silence, the names of benefactors, who have by 
their influence or their wealth, promoted the cause at home. 
We have, for many pages, been occupied with the character 
and indefatigable labours of that extraordinary man, Lott Gary; 
but just when his sun had risen to the meridian, it was sud- 
denly extinguished. Without a moment's warning he was 
snatched away from all his long cherished hopes of extensive 
usefulness to the heathen. And in the same year we must 
record the sudden departure of one of the earliest and most de- 
voted friends of colonization in the city of Washington. Our 
reference is, to Doctor William Thornton. In another part 
of this history, we noticed that this learned and benevolent 
citizen had proposed a plan of colonizing the free people of 
colour as early as 1785, or 1787. 

When the American Colonization Society was founded and 
organized, he was prepared at once to enter with ardour into 
the scheme. He was a member of the first Board of Managers 
ever chosen, and continued to be a faithful and punctual asso- 
ciate with the other gentlemen of the Board, until his lamented 
death. His temperament was ardent and his heart generous. 
While he was free in declaring and firm in maintaining his own 
opinions, he was candid and liberal towards those of others. 
His ardent mind would quickly kindle into a glow of indigna- 
tion at acts of perfidy and inhumanity; but he was equally 
prompt to yield unstinted praise to noble and generous acts. 
If he was an enthusiast, it was an enthusiasm for the improve- 
ment of the human kind. Not satisfied with man's present 
progress, he looked forward with high wrought anticipations, 



256 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to a State of society far more perfect than any thing which has 
yet been witnessed. 

The Board of Managers, on the occasion of his death, met to 
express their deep sense of his vahie, as a member, and of the 
loss which the cause had sustained in his decease, and unani- 
mously passed the following resokition : "This Board have 
heard with very deep regret, of the death of Dr. William 
Thornton, one of its earliest and most highly valued members, 
and whose loss must be severely felt by Africa and mankind." 

Soon after the death of Mr. Ashmun, the Board of Mana- 
gers elected as his successor, Dr. Richard Randall, of 
Washington city, a highly respected member of the Board. 
Measures were also taken to hasten his departure, that he 
might take upon himself the arduous and responsible duties of 
Colonial Agent. The Board considered themselves happy in 
so soon finding a person so fully qualified, as Dr. Randall, 
willing to undertake an agency surrounded with so many 
dangers. 

During the year 1S28, several pious and devoted mission- 
aries were sent to Liberia, from the Missionary Society of 
Switzerland, who had been educated in the mission school of 
Basle, under the tuition of the venerable Blumhardt. They 
were five in number, and four of them arrived at Monrovia, in 
1828. Mr. Sessing had preceded his brethren some months, 
and had made suitable preparation for their accommodation. 
By a letter to the Board at Washington, from the minister just 
named, it appeared that these pious men were greatly delighted 
with the prospect of labouring for the conversion of the poor 
heathen in Africa. In October, 1828, the Rev. Dr. Blumhardt 
addressed a letter to the Board of Managers, relative to the 
concerns of these young men, his former pupils. 

The ship Harriet, Captain Johnson, left Hampton Roads, on 
the 9th of February, 1829, with one hundred and sixty emi- 
grants for Liberia. A more orderly and respectable company, 
according to the African Repository, never had embarked for 
the colony. Of this number, between forty and fifty had been 
liberated by a few persons, for the special purpose of being 
transferred to the privileges of the Liberian colony. Fifteen 
of these were liberated by Miss Margaret Mercer, near Anna- 
polis, Maryland, and eighteen by the Rev. Thomas P. Hunt, of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 257 

Brunswick county, Virginia. Six were lately the property of 
Edward Colston, Esq., of Virginia. Some of the number had 
been long free, and had accumulated considerable property; 
and all who embarked, took with them a liberal supply of pro- 
visions, household furniture, agricultural implements, and arti- 
cles for trade. Most of these emigrants were in the vigour of 
life, highly recommended for their correct morals, and industri- 
ous habits; and a large proportion distinguished among their 
class, for intelligence, influence, and piety. 

Among the passengers in this vessel, was the unfortunate 
Moorish prince, Abduhl Rahhaman, who had been long a slave 
in Mississippi. 

Just before the vessel sailed, several ministers attached to 
the Presbyterian church, convened on board the Harriet, and 
ordained the Rev, Joseph Turner, who had long been an ex- 
emplary member and useful preacher, in that denomination. 

The Rev. David Payne, a highly respectable preacher in the 
Methodist church, also embarked in this vessel. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

RANDALL'S ADMINISTRATION. 

Doctor Randall arrived at Monrovia, December 22, 1828, 
where he received the first intelligence of the melancholy cir- 
cumstances of the death of Lott Gary. The election of a suc- 
cessor to Gary, had raised Mr. Waring to the office of vice- 
agent. Dr. Randall estimated the property in the public stores, 
when he arrived, to be of the value of seventy thousand dollars, 
and twice that sum, if all the convertible property in the col- 
ony were included. "I am," says he, "much pleased with 
the climate, location, fertility, and population of Liberia. The 
climate is, at this season, most delightful. It is not very warm 
during the day, and at night it is cool enough to sleep under 
a blanket. Though this is considered the sickly season, we 
have but little disease, and none of an alarming character. 
The location of Monrovia, is the most delightful that can be 
22* 



258 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

imagined. Since the woods have been cleared away on the 
south side of the peninsula, our town is in full view from the 
ocean, and has, really, a most imposing appearance." — "The 
location of this place gives it most important commercial ad- 
vantages; and whatever may be the final success of our colo- 
nizing operations, nothing but some most unfortunate disaster, 
can prevent its becoming one of the most important commer- 
cial cities on the African coast. The Cape lands are not very 
fertile, generally, but there are some situations quite so: even 
the most barren parts are suitable for gardening, with a little 
attention to manuring; and the very worst part of it will pro- 
duce coffee, and several varieties of fruits. I visited Caldwell 
and the half-way Farms, a few days since, and was much 
pleased with the improvements which have been made there, 
during the period they have been occupied. Most of the set- 
tlers have good houses, and all of them have flourishing plant- 
ations of rice, cassada, plantains, and potatoes, with many other 
fruits and vegetables," — "Though none of these people are as 
wealthy as their commercial brethreji at Monrovia, they are all 
above want, and will, in a few years, become rich ; for their 
lands are admirably adapted to the cultivation of sugar and 
cotton, in addition to the articles before mentioned. The lands 
on both sides of Stockton Creek are of the very best quality, 
being a rich, light alluvion, equal in every respect to the best 
lands on the southern rivers of the United States." 

"Mr. Cary has located the recaptured Africans, whose term 
of service to the colonists had expired, behind the Half-way 
Farms, between Stockton creek and the Mesurado river. I 
visited their town, and was much pleased with their improve- 
ments. They have been on their lands but three months, and 
have already built themselves comfortable houses, enclosed 
their lots, and have their cassada, plantains, and potatoes grow- 
ing most luxuriaiuly." — "The late vice agent, Mr. Cary, de- 
serves much credit for his exertions, in the location and settle- 
ment of this flourishing village. I propose to have it called 
after him, Carytown." 

Concerning the condition of the slave trade. Dr. Randall 
writes: "If I had under my direction an armed vessel, with 
forty men, principally black sailors from the United States, I 
would pledge myself that the slave trade should not be carried 
on in the neighbourhood of the colony. From all I can learn 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 259 

here, I am induced to believe, that the slave trade is now car- 
ried on at the Gallinas, between Cape Mount and Sierra Leone, 
and to the leeward of that place, to a greater extent than it has 
been for many years. The South American cruisers are alone 
efficient against the slavers. The slavers are generally fitted 
out in the island of Cuba, or Brazil, and land their cargoes, 
and establish factories for the collection of slaves, at some con- 
venient spot, whilst the vessels cruise off and on with perfect 
security from the English, French, and other cruisers, who 
cannot capture them, unless they have the slaves actually on 
board: and as soon as the coast is clear, and the wind fair, they 
get their slaves on board, and being generally fast sailers, they 
defy all pursuers. But the South Americans being at war 
with Spain, and the Buenos Ayreans with both Spain and Bra- 
zil, they capture all under those flags, whether they liave, or 
have not on board, their cargo of slaves." — " The colonists, I 
find, are much alarmed at the idea of incensing these people, 
who are so powerful, lest they should injure them by cutting 
up their commerce on this coast. It will be recollected, that 
there has been no American vessel cruising on this coast for many 
years. The Ontario stopped here a short time last year, and 
the Shark, which is now here, is only authorized to delay for 
the reception of my despatches to the Navy Department. I 
hope the Board will urge on the Government, the necessity of 
keeping a vessel on the coast. I will pledge my medical repu- 
tation, that it can be done with but little risk from disease, if 
the proper precautions are used. Neither the officers nor men 
need be exposed on shore at night, the only dangerous period; 
and the men need not be landed at all, as the Kroomen may be 
employed for three or four dollars a month, to procure wood 
and water, and do all the work on shore." 

" I have been," continues Dr. Randall, "so fortunate as to 
meet with a Mandingo, from Susoo, a country bordering on 
the territory of Footah Jallo, from whom, with the assistance 
of Mr. Gomez, a highly intelligent African educated in Europe, 
I have obtained a translation of the letter 1 obtained from Prince 
to his relations in Teemboo. I have sent enclosed the trans- 
lation of the letter, in the hand of Mr. Gomez, as a specimen of 
African penmanship. I inquired of the Mandingo, whether he 
could take charge of the letter, but finding that he spoke doubt- 
fully, and did not intend to return to his country for many 



260 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

months, I determined not to entrust him with it, but to wait a 
better opportunity. I permitted him to take a copy of the 
letter, and promised him a handsome compensation, if he 
would obtain an answer to it from Teemboo.'' 

Dr. Randall's enterprising spirit appears strongly manifested 
in the whole of this interesting communication to the Board. 
Although he had been only a few weeks in the colony, yet he 
seems to have directed his attention to every thing connect- 
ed with the design and interests of the colony. The following 
information respecting the interior country of Africa, was ob- 
tained from a Mr. Dungey, who, with some others, had 
penetrated a considerable distance inland, for the purposes 
of trade. His statement (says Dr. Randall) is as follows. 
" Himself and three others of the colonists have been several 
times to King Boatswain's town, a hundred and fifty miles in 
the interior, for the purpose of trade. They take the path, 
which is an open one, and well suited for men and beasts of 
burden, about six miles from the mouth of St. Paul's, and pene- 
trate in a northern direction, through immense forests, filled 
with herds of elephants, and innumerable other wild animals. 
During the whole distance, until they get within twenty miles 
of Boatswain's town, they pass no settlements, and meet with 
no natives, except the elephant hunters, who are very nume- 
rous, but always friendly. When they arrive within twenty 
miles of Boatswain's town, they find the country open and well 
cultivated, with many cattle and some horses. The town con- 
tains more than a thousand houses, and is well fortified with a 
barricade ; and eight thousand men, armed with muskets, can 
be brought to its defence. Boatswain is generally at war with 
his neighbours, but has been uniformly friendly to us; and 
seems much disposed to carry on a more extensive trade with 
the people of the colony. By opening a direct path, the dis- 
tance may be reduced to one hundred and twenty miles. Our 
traders carry with them tobacco, pipes, muskets, powder, 
clothes, and other articles of African trade; and in return, ob- 
tain bullocks, ivory, and gold. From what I can learn, the St. 
Paul's, after passing the falls at Millsburg, is a deep navigable 
river, extending several hundred miles in a northern direction. 
Mr. Dungey assured me that he was on the St. Paul's within 
twenty-five miles of Boatswain's town, and found it half a mile 
wide, and free from all falls or obstructions. There are several 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 261 

large islands at this point, one of which, called Harahamiah, he 
describes as five miles wide, and more than ten long. He says 
the people there told him, that the time was, when the slavers 
came up in their boats to this point, with goods to buy slaves. 
This fine river is, on the map, described as the Mesnrado; but 
its mouth is several miles north of Cape Mesurado, though it is 
connected with a river of that name by a navigable creek — the 
Stockton. 

" I have no doubt that by means of this fine river, we will in 
time open a trade with the interior, by which we will divert to 
this place much of the gold and ivory which is now carried to 
Sierra Leone on the north, and Cape Coast to the south. I have 
already ascertained that a company can be formed, with a capital 
of a thousand or two thousand dollars, for the purpose of mak- 
ing an experiment in this trade, on a larger scale than hitherto 
has been done; and I will probably take shares in it, as author- 
ized by the society, to the amount of two hundred dollars. I 
will send a message to Boatswain in a few days, with a present, 
and will endeavour to induce him to open a more direct path 
from our settlement, and to permit us to carry on a trade with 
the people beyond him, and establish a factory in his town. At 
present, the goods of our traders are carried on men's backs, 
and cost them for transportation about fifty cents a hundred, 
there, and as much back with the returns. Mules or jacks might 
be used to advantage for this purpose; and if we could use the 
river St. Paul's, even if we had to make a portage at Millsburg, 
it would be still better." 

The quarrel which had arisen before Gary's death with the 
natives, on the coast near the colony, was not adjusted. " King 
Brister (Bristol) had expressed, in his communications to Mr. 
Waring, his desire for peace, but at the same time his determi- 
nation to defend himself if attacked. He denied the right of 
the colony to interfere with him or his slave trade, beyond the 
St. Paul's, the line of their territory. As the slave factory, "the 
original cause of the difficulty, had been broken up when I ar- 
rived, I felt no disposition to renew the quarrel, and I will en- 
deavour to adjust the thing amicably. Indeed, with our pre- 
sent very limited means of attack or defence, the colony has 
nothing to gain, and every thing to lose, by a war with the 
natives. 
" The trade of this place is now very considerable, and is be- 



262 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

coming greater every day, as its capital and number of vessels 
for carrying on the coasting trade increase. Besides six or 
eight smaller decked vessels, we have, belonging to the colony, 
two larger schooners, the one above thirty, the other above 
forty tons, employed in the coasting trade." 

Dr. Randall estimates the exports from Monrovia, during the 
year past, to be equal to sixty or seventy thousand dollars. 

As the society had resolved that a tonnage duty should be 
collected on vessels in the ports of this colony, Dr. Randall, by 
the authority vested in him, appointed Francis Devany revenue 
officer, and gave him the requisite instructions for the perform- 
ance of the duties of his office. 

About this time there seemed to be a rising sentiment among 
many friends of colonization in favour of Hayti, as the place to 
which the free people of colour should be sent, in preference to 
Africa. The country was already in complete possession, of the 
coloured race, and there seemed to be no reasonable ground to 
fear that it would ever be wrested from them. The island is 
known to be exceedingly fertile, and capable of supporting 
many more inhabitants than it now contains. The transporta- 
tion of emigrants to Hayti, it was thought, would be compara- 
tively easy, as the island was near to our continent. And it 
had been ascertained that the Government would consent to 
permit emigrants to come and settle in the country; and that 
while they behaved themselves peaceably, and did nothing to 
interrupt or destroy the established religion, they should not 
be molested in the free exercise of their own religion. This 
scheme of colonization commended itself especially to the So- 
ciety of Friends, and a number of colonists were sent by them 
from North Carolina, who actually took up their residence in 
Hayti, on lands assigned to them. 

On the 17th of February, 182 9, the schooner Cicero sailed for 
Port-au-Prince, having on board twelve coloured emigrants, libe- 
rated by Joseph Leonard Smith, Esq., a gentleman of Frederick 
county, for the purpose of establishing them as colonists in 
Hayti. Mr. Smith not only generously relinquished his legal 
rights to the services of these persons, but furnished them with 
a handsome outfit of provisions, clothing, and agricultural im- 
plements. He also paid their passage to Hayti, and engaged, 
at his own expense, the services of a gentleman well acquainted 
with the country and its government, to go out with them, and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 263 

assist them in making an advantageous location, and to procure 
for them all the facilities and benefits which are extended to 
persons of this description by the Haytien Republic. 

Thomas Kennedy, of the Society of Friends, and a citizen 
of Wayne county, North Carolina, undertook the benevolent 
agency of visiting all the coloured emigrants who had been sent 
out by the Society of Friends, in that State. His report was by 
no means favourable to the scheme of colonizing our free 
people of colour on that island. He found the emigrants 
"generally, unpleasantly situated, and very much dissatisfied. 
They complained, that the proprietors of the lands, for whom 
they had laboured for two years and a half, had entirely disap- 
pointed them. That they had received but from six to ten dol- 
lars each as a compensation for their labour during the above 
time; and they declared, 'that they would rather be slaves in 
North Carolina, than to remain there under the treatment they 
had received since their arrival' " Mr. Kennedy bore testimo- 
nials and instructions from the yearly meeting of Friends, in 
North Carolina, and was treated with civility by the President 
of the island; but all his efforts to improve the condition of the 
emigrants from the United States proved ineffectual; and in 
attempting to take under his protection, for removal, a family 
which he had formerly emancipated, he was treated with great 
indignity. 

The general description of the country given by Mr. Ken- 
nedy, is, "that the land is vastly rich, producing with but little 
cultivation, most of the necessaries of life. The climate, air, 
and water, are salubrious and pure." — "Their government is 
an aristocratic, military despotism. Their Congress and its 
powers, are a mere fudge. The laws are better worded, than 
administered. In fact, I think," says he, "the will of the Pres- 
ident may be deemed the law of the land, with a standing 
army (report says) of forty thousand, to enforce it. There, 
agriculture is very much neglected; particularly the growth of 
articles for exportation. Hence, their commerce is declining. 
Their manners and customs are disagreeable ; their way, or 
mode of living, particularly in the country, is very poor and 
coarse. Polygamy is tolerated; at least, concubinage is prac- 
tised with impunity. Hence, they have but few children. The 
people are generally ignorant, yet conceited and self-wise. As 
for their religion, I fear they have but little; notwithstanding, 



264 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

they mostly profess to be Roman Catholics. From my short 
acquaintance with the Haytiens, and my observing their dispo- 
sitions towards our American blacks amongst them, I am not 
disposed to encourage any free people of colour to go from the 
United States, to settle in Hayti ; but as a friend, I would sug- 
gest to them the propriety of emigrating to Liberia, where I 
believe, they would live under good government and laws, 
enjoy equal privileges, and be among their own country peo- 
ple. The present colonists would have their own customs, 
manners, and religion. Added to which, they would be in the 
land of their forefathers' nativity ; where, by proper application 
on their part, they might be instrumental in civihzing and 
christianizing benighted Africa." The intelligent friends of 
colonization were not disappointed in the result of the Haytien 
experiment, but they made no opposition to a scheme which 
aimed at the same objects in part, which had led to the forma- 
tion of the American Colonization Society. And as we shall 
not have occasion to touch this subject again, it may be further 
remarked, that most of those who emigrated to Hayti, returned, 
and some of them in circumstances of great distress. And 
now, for many years, Hayti has not been thought of as a suit- 
able place for the colonization of the free people of colour, 
from the United States. 

But some time afterwards, a number of families emigrated 
from New York and New Jersey to Trinidad; and the result 
was not more favourable, and as many of these as could, 
returned. One of them, a preacher, informed the writer, that 
the prejudice on account of colour, did not exist there, but that 
such a difference of rank existed, as excluded nearly all the 
emigrants from good society. 

Gerrit Smith, Esq. of New York, proposed a plan for raising 
one hundred thousand dollars for the Colonization Society, by 
getting a hundred persons to subscribe, each one thousand dol- 
lars. This scheme met with general approbation, and a num- 
ber of persons manifested their zeal and liberality in the cause, 
by adding their names to the list: and although the proposed 
number of subscribers was not obtained, yet it is believed, 
that all who subscribed paid their quota; as certainly was the 
fact in regard to Mr. Smith himself; who, when he abandoned 
the Colonization cause, to join that of the Anti-Slavery Society, 
honourably discharged every debt which he had voluntarily 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 265 

contracted to the former. Although we are aware, that with 
his present views, this whole subject must be reflected on with 
regret, yet as we deem his conduct, while connected with the 
Colonization Society, both liberal and honourable, we feel it to 
be due to him to mention with praise, the services rendered by 
him to the Colonization Society ; and if he manifests as good a 
spirit toward the cause which he has since so zealously espoused, 
we doubt not that he will prove a powerful coadjutor. This 
scheme for raising funds, having been before the public for so 
many years, its origin and progress are properly a part of the 
history of African colonization. 

Whatever may be the ultimate design of Providence, in re- 
gard to the Colonization Society, it is certain that no institution 
of modern times, has gained the approbation and enlisted the 
zeal of more eminent men than this. That it should have 
succeeded as far as it has done, is a result far above the calcu- 
lations of many, who thought it their duty to give a fair trial 
to the enterprise. The disease was so desperate, and other 
remedies so hopeless, that without a sanguine feeling, many 
benevolent persons determined to give it their support. And 
now, when these incredulous friends cast their eyes over Libe- 
ria, they cannot but exclaim, "What hath God wrought.^" 
"Surely, it is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our 
eyes." 

We give at the bottom of the page, the names of all the sub- 
scribers* to "Gerrit Smith's Plan," as it was called; and how- 
ever it may now mortify him to see his name at the head of the 

* The following are the names of the subscribers to the plan of Gerrit Smith : 
Gerrit Smith, Peterborough, N. Y.; Jasper Corning, Charleston, S. C. ; Theodore 
Frciinghuysen, Newark, N. J.; John F. Norton, Albany, N, Y.; E, F. Backus, 
New Haven, Ct.; a Gentleman in Mississippi; IVlathew Carey, Philadelphia; Jo- 
siah Bissel, Rochester, N. Y.; William Crane, Richmond, Va.; Flemming James, 
Richmond, Va. ; Robert Ralston, Philadelphia; Elliot Cresson, Philadelphia; Mrs. 
H. Carrington, Mrs. Ann Fontain, W. A. Carrington, and P. I. Carrington, Va. ; 
General Edward Carrington, Walter C. Carrington, Va.; a Few Gentlemen near 
Oak Hill, Fauquier; Rev. Ebenezer Burgess, Dedham, Mass.; a Friend in Vir- 
ginia; Robert Gilmer, Baltimore; Arthur Tappan, N. Y.; George Burwell, Fred- 
erick, Va.; Association of Twenty, in Dr. Mead's Parish; Honourable Edward 
M'Ghee, Mis. ; Rev. Dr. James P. Thomas, La.; Four young Gentlemen, Alexan- 
dria, D. C. ; Auxiliary Colonization Society of Georgetown; a Friend in Freder- 
icktown, Md. ; another Subscription in Bishop Mead's congregation; John Gray, 
Fredericksburg, Va. ; Solomon Allen, Philadelphia, Pa. ; Cortland Van Rensselaer, 
Albany, N. Y. 
23 



266 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

list, yet when Liberia shall have grown to be a great republic, 
and the friends of colonization receive their due honours, we 
are of opinion, that nothing which Mr. Smith has done, or is 
likely to do, will exhibit his character to posterity in a more 
amiable light. Indeed, his whole course, since he abandoned 
and denounced the society, has been rather indicative of a 
certain degree of mental derangement, than of wisdom and 
sobriety of mind. But we are only concerned whh the char- 
acter of this gentleman while he was connected with the Amer- 
ican Colonization Society, during which time he was an active 
and efficient friend. 

The following communication from the pen of Dr. Randall, 
before his much lamented end, is contained in a private letter 
to a friend, giving an account of a short journey up the St. 
Paul's. Its date is February 15, 1829. 

"I have at length got through this much-talked-of African 
fever; and after all, do not think it any great thing. A Caro- 
lina or Georgia fever is just as bad; and as for an Alabama 
fever, it would be worth two of it. , I continued to use precau- 
tions, and take medicines for six weeks after my arrival, and 
enjoyed perfect health; but I at length became tired and care- 
less, and the consequence was, the fever. I was well taken care 
of, and had every attention that could be afibrded; and since I 
am through with it, I am glad to have had it, as it will exempt 
me from it entirely hereafter. 

"As soon as I had finished my business with the Shark, and 
she had sailed, I determined to set off on an exploring expedi- 
tion, up tl\e St. Paul's, which had hitherto been unexplored by 
civilized man, except to Millsburg, the head of safe navigation. 
The river, from its mouth, is most beautiful. Its banks are 
high and broken, and covered with the most dense and varie- 
gated verdure. Along the banks, here and there, we discovered 
an African town, with the thatched huts intermingled with the 
broad green leaf of the plantain, of which the beautiful pea- 
green colour distinguishes it from all surrounding verdure. On 
our approach to one of those villages, which is always an- 
nounced by our boatmen, with their African boat-song,we gen- 
erally found all the inhabitants, men, women, and children, 
assembled on the beach, to see and receive us. If you stop, 
you are immediately carried to the king or head-man's house, 
where you are expected to make him a dash, or present, before 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 267 

any thing is said or done. If on a friendly visit, it is small, and 
returned by a dash on the other part. But if on business, and 
you have any great object to effect, your dashes must be larger 
and more numerous, and then you receive nothing in return. 
After passing half a dozen of these villages on the St. Paul's, 
and ascending twenty miles, we arrived at Millsburg, where 
we slept in country fashion, but had a good supper from our 
store basket. In the morning early, we left the settlement with 
our little party, as the natives say, 'to go into the bush.' One 
of the most enterprising of our settlers had penetrated along 
one of the branches of the river, by following the paths made 
by wild cattle, for about two miles, and we determined to follow 
the same path, as far as it would lead us. As the underwood 
here is the most dense and close that can be imagined, the 
course of procedure is, to send forward, to clear the path, two 
or three of the natives with their short straight cutlasses, with 
which they open the paths with great facility. By thus cutting 
a passage through the underwood, without cutting the large 
trees or shrubbery, a perfect alcove is formed, and you are en- 
tirely protected from the action of the sun, which is only now 
and then visible through the opening of the trees. When we 
had advanced in our route about two miles, we came to a 
place where the St. Paul's was joined by a considerable stream, 
which we at first concluded was a river from the north; but 
on ascending the river to a higher point, we ascertained that it 
was only a branch which had separated above, and was reuni- 
ted at this spot. We were exceedingly anxious to cross the 
river, to survey the beautiful island opposite ; but as there was 
no other means of getting over except by a native bridge, we 
abandoned the idea. The native bridges are constructed of 
rattan, or country rope, and consist merely of cords drawn across 
the river, to prevent the current from sweeping the swimmer 
down, and are sometimes, to the unskilful, more dangerous than 
useful. I was astonished to find the St. Paul's here most clear 
and limpid. Most of the African rivers are said to be turbid and 
muddy ; but in the St. Paul's, the bottom was visible at twenty 
feet, and the fish, which were numerous, could be seen for many 
yards from us. As we advanced further on our route, up the 
northern branch, which we were determined to pursue till we 
came to the main stream again, our path was crossed by many 
more recent wild cattle tracks, all leading to or from the river; 



268 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and we occasionally saw the broad foot-print of the elephant. 
After following the course of this branch of the river for two 
hours, we found that we should have to leave it, or deviate 
from the course by which we expected to strike the St. Paul's 
above, where the natives told us it made a great sweep or bend, 
and ' made trouble or fuss.' We therefore left the river, and 
kept on northward by a cattle path, which soon brought us to 
a prairie. This was evidently an artificial prairie ; and the 
numerous palm and cotton trees soon convinced us that this 
had been, at some former period, the seat of an extensive and 
populous native settlement. The appearance of the solitary 
palm tree is most truly majestic. In a plain on which there is no 
shrub six feet high, a half dozen of these fine trees will elevate 
their smooth round trunks, without a branch, eighty or a hun- 
dred feet, and then expanding their heads, by opening their 
broad pea-green leaves, they form a beautiful umbrella some 
twenty or thirty feet in diameter. After following a straight 
line through this prairie, which appeared to have been the fa- 
vourite resort of the wild cattle and elephants, about two or 
three hours' walk, we began to hear the roar of the cataract, 
and now became convinced that we had taken the proper 
course, and would soon again be in sight of the river, breaking 
upon our view, just as we had ascended the height of a consi- 
derable mountain, which appeared to thrust itself immediately 
in our path. From this height, which is nearly two hundred 
feet, I had a view of the St. Paul's, only intercepted here and 
there by the density of the foliage. I found what the natives 
had described as a tremendous cataract or fall, was merely ra- 
pids in the river, produced by the sudden obstruction of its 
course offered by the chain of hills, on the point of which I 
then stood. As soon as I was able (for we had all been com- 
pletely broken down in the ascent) I commenced the descent of 
the river, down a bank so steep that nothing but a strict adhe- 
rence to the underwood could save us from falling down the 
declivity. On arriving at the foot of the declivity, close down 
to the edge of the river, I found that the sweep of the river from 
its original course was caused by its choosing the direction of 
this liigh chain of hills. The St. Paul's here is wider, and con- 
tains more water than the Potomac. It is a much more beau- 
tiful stream too, for its banks, though fully as precipitous, are 
clothed with the richest verdure, and this verdure is of a more 
variegated character. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 269 

" We continued to travel over the rough and precipitous 
shores of the river for about two hours, until we arrived at a 
point which presented to our view the first distinct fall we had 
seen. At this point we came to a beautiful valley, where a 
small stream, rushing down the rocks, precipitated itself into a 
natural circular basin of rocks, which presented the appearance 
of an artificial basin." 

We have also a communication to the Board, written imme- 
diately after his return from the exploring journey, before men- 
tioned. 

" Gentlemen : The brig Romp, Captain Allen, from Portland, 
Maine, being about to depart for the United States, aff'ords me an 
opportunity of communicating with you. This will necessarily 
be limited, in consequence of my having had a very severe at- 
tack of the fever ; but I am happy to say that I am so far con- 
valescent as to promise myself a speedy restoration to health. 
This month, although called by some residents here, the sickly 
season, has not, to judge from the few cases of illness that come 
under my notice, merited that appellation. Indeed, I do not 
know any part of the United States where the proportion of the 
sick is not full as great as here; nor are the cases of a refractory 
nature, almost all yielding to medicine." 

He then proceeds to give the Board various details of the 
work performed, or in progress; after which he adds: 

" The agriculture of the colony appears to be advancing 
slowly, but surely; but until we have some staple that will 
hold out greater inducements to agriculturists than the culti- 
vation of rice and cassada, but little can be expected. 

" Towards effecting so desirable an object, I intend commenc- 
ing a sugar plantation this winter, which will give a stimulus 
to others to pursue the same course, and direct a greater portion 
of enterprise into a channel which will eventually prove very 
advantageous to the colony. 

" The commercial prospects of the colony are at present very 
promising; and the trade to this place, both from the United 
States and Europe, will doubtless increase very rapidly, as the 
inducements held out to merchants are greater, every year. 

"The Sabbath and day-schools of the colony are in a tolera- 
bly flourishing state, but the want of a person to give instruction 
in the higher branches continues to be severely felt." 

He then mentions his exploring expedition, and promises a 
23* 



270 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

full account of it in a future communication. But alas, this, as 
far as is known, was his last letter. His ardour of enterprise 
carried him too far. Before he was well recovered from the 
fever, he undertook this fatiguing journey; in which he was 
exposed to the sun by day, and the damps by night, at that 
season which is there reckoned most unhealthy. 

The mournful account of the death of Dr. Randall was con- 
veyed to the Board by a letter from Dr. Mechlin, a young gen- 
tleman who had accompanied him to Liberia, and who became 
his successor. He states, " that he died on the 19th of April, 
1S29, of an inflammation of the brain, brought on by too early 
exposure to the heat of the sun, and by a too close and unremit- 
ted attention to business, before he had recovered from the 
effects of the fever. 

" Dr. Randall was born at Annapolis, Maryland. His father 
was, for many years, the collector of the customs in that place. 
Having received his education at St. John's college, Dr. Ran- 
dall engaged m the study of his profession with Dr. Ridgley, 
of Annapolis, and subsequently took his degree of Doctor of 
Medicine, at the Medical School in Philadelphia. About the 
year 1S18, he received the appointment of surgeon's mate, in 
the army, and was soon advanced to the rank of first surgeon. 
But in 1825, he resigned his commission, and commenced the 
practice of medicine in the city of Washington. Of the man- 
ner in which he performed the duties of his profession, one 
who knew liim well has given the following testimony; ' Such 
was his unbounded benevolence and philanthropy, that no ex- 
posure to weather, no indisposition of body, no sacrifice of 
private interest, could prevent his efforts to relieve the distresses 
and promote the happiness of his fellow beings. To the poor, 
and those not well able to pay, he was particularly attentive, 
and not unfrequently performed surgical operations of the most 
difficult kind, without any other reward, than that (which, in- 
deed, he most valued) of a consciousness of having fulfilled his 
duty. Instances, unknown even to his friends until recently, 
have come to light, in which, not only his medical services 
were gratuitously rendered, but even medicines and other sup- 
plies furnished to the needy and afflicted, at his own expense.' 

" But his abilities, as a man of science, could not remain un- 
noticed, and in 1827, he was elected to the professorship of 
chemistry, in the medical department of Columbia College. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 271 

For some time before his departure for Africa, Dr. Randall 
had been an able and efficient member of the Board of Mana- 
gers of the Colonization Society. In the various deliberations 
of this Board, he evinced a deep interest, and the opinions which 
he not un frequently expressed, were manifestly those of a dis- 
criminating, judicious, resolute, and benevolent mind." 

None who were associated with him, in the management of 
the society's affairs, can forget the amiableness and frankness 
of his disposition, the candour and liberality of his sentiments, 
the ardour of his feelings, the energy of his intellect, and the 
force of his purposes. "He was," says one well acquainted 
with him, " a generous, kind, and noble-minded man. Withal 
he had a warmth of feeling, which uncontrolled, would have 
been enthusiastic, in the ordinary sense of the term, but which 
it was his constant, and almost invariably successful effort, to 
order by a sound judgment. The achievements and talents of 
Ashmun, his predecessor, made a strong impression on him. 
He once thought Ashmun a weak enthusiast, and that his 
character was blazoned forth here by equally deluded vision- 
aries: but his judgment was enlightened, and his opinions have 
been frequenly expressed, in terms of the highest admiration, 
of the extraordinary and diversified abilities of that greatest 
earthly friend to the African colony." 

The same friend who furnished the foregoing sketch, ob- 
served most justly, that it is no wonder, considering the fine 
talents, the experience, the practical views of Dr. Randall, that 
he should have directed his thoughts towards such an object, 
as the government of the colony of Liberia. "The station 
required a knowledge of the objects of the society here and 
there. He had attained this knowledge at the Board of Man- 
agers. The station required a mind naturally firm, abounding 
with energies, liberalized by education and moral principle, 
and softened with benevolence. These traits strongly marked 
Dr. Randall's mind. That station would be completely provi- 
ded for, if to the above qualifications were added, skill and 
experience in medicine. He was an accomplished and expe- 
rienced physician, and that nothing might be wanted to protect 
the 'verdant spot in the wilderness,' he had spent his early life 
in the army, where he had acquired military knowledge, so 
necessary to defend the colony against the natives." . . . . " Hon- 



272 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

cured among men will be the memories of Bacon, Ashmun, 
and Randall." 

"When Ashmun died, the Managers felt that the colony had 
lost a governor, upon the wisdom and energy of whose mea- 
sures, its prosperity, if not its existence, depended. Dr. Randall 
was deeply sensible of the shock which our institution experi- 
enced in this event." He seems to have formed the noble 
purpose of devoting all his energies to this arduous and danger- 
ous enterprise, as soon as he heard of Ashmun's death. An 
intimate friend could perceive that his mind was labouring 
with the momentous subject, before he gave any expression to 
his feelings or intentions. "When admonished by kind friends, 
of the danger of the enterprise, and implored to remain in the 
flattering career which he had commenced, in Washington, he 
replied, 'that in doing his duty he disregarded his life; and that 
with his feelings and purposes, he could readily exchange the 
endearing intercourse of relations, the alluring pleasures of 
refined society, the promised success of professional exertion, for 
the humble duty of promoting the happiness of the poor ne- 
groes in Africa, and be happy in so doing.'' " 

Perhaps no man could easily be found, who combined more 
of the qualities and habits, necessary to an accomplished agent, 
in conducting such an enterprise successfully, than Dr. Randall; 
and it was hoped that his medical skill and experience would 
have enabled him to guard against the dangers of a tropical 
climate: and, for a season, he enjoyed perfect health. But 
losing all apprehension of danger, and excited by the objects 
which presented themselves in Africa, he too much lost sight 
of the dictates of prudence, and yielded too much to the ar- 
dour of his natural disposition. However, we know but little 
about the real causes of disease. He might have sunk as 
many others have done, had he made no exertion. 

" We rejoice in the belief," says the eloquent writer, from 
whom we have borrowed the aforesaid sketch, "that there is 
a quickening and undying energy in virtue. The noble-minded 
bequeath to after ages, an invaluable and imperishable legacy, 
— the legacy of their example. The fires which consumed the 
martyrs, lighted the church on to triumph; the sufferings and 
sacrifices of our fathers, are, to their descendants, among the 
most precious motives to virtuous action ; and we trust, that 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 273 

the names of those who have fallen in the glorious work of 
Africa's redemption, will prove as 'way-marks,' guiding an 
immense population on the shore where they perished, to 
knowledge, liberty and religion." 

On the 23d of June, 1829, the Board of Managers of the 
Colonization Societj^, passed the following resolutions: 

" Inasmuch as it hath pleased Almighty God, to remove by 
death, on the 19th of April last, from his sphere of usefulness 
and duty. Dr. Richard Randall, colonial agent at Liberia, be it 

"Resolved, That the Board of Managers hereby express 
their deep sorrow for the death of their amiable and valued 
colleague and agent. 

" Resolved, That the relations of the deceased be assured of 
the sympathies of the members of this Board, the more deeply 
felt, because of their personal knowledge of his worth. 

"Resolved, That a portrait of the late Colonial Agent be ob- 
tained, and placed in the room of the Board of Managers of the 
Colonization Society." 



CHAPTER XVIII 



OPERATIONS AT HOME. 



It will be necessary now to return, and bring up the history of 
several miscellaneous matters, which occurred in the period of 
which we have given a narrative in some of the preceding 
chapters. 

The anniversary meeting of the Colonization Society at 
Washington, in February, 1827, was one of great interest. 
Among the delegates from abroad, were several persons of 
great abilities and high distinction, in different States of the 
Union. Mr. Clay, as one of the vice-presidents, in the absence 
of the president, Judge B. Washington, took the chair; but in 
a short time, resigned it to Richard Rush, Esq., another of the 
vice-presidents. Motions were made or seconded by General 
Van Rensselaer, the Honourable Mr. Weems, the Honourable 
Mr. Powell of Virginia, Mr. Knapp of Boston, the Honourable 



274 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Mr. Lawrence, and others. Mr. Knapp addressed the meeting 
in a speech of great length and abiUty. He acknowledged his 
own former prejudices against the plan, but by a full and im- 
partial consideration of the whole subject, he had been con- 
vinced of the wisdom and benevolence of the enterprise; and 
entered at large into the reasons which had brought his mind 
to entertain the sentiments which he had expressed. Mr. Knapp 
also took a learned view of Africa, as it had formerly existed, 
when it was foremost in arts and arms, and in the cultivation 
of letters and religion. 

Mr. Clay's speech at this meeting, was lucid, eloquent, and 
argumentative. He also stated, that upon hearing of the 
scheme, his first impressions were unfavourable. He spoke of 
the opposition which the society had met from two opposite 
quarters, from its very commencement; first, from that class 
whom nothing could satisfy, but immediate, unqualified eman- 
cipation of all the slaves; second, from those who believed 
that slavery was a good and useful institution, and were afraid, 
to extreme sensibility, of any thing which in the most indirect 
manner seemed to have a bearing on emancipation. He re- 
marked, however, that no great enterprise was ever accom- 
plished without opposition; and spoke highly of the resolute 
and even course pursued by the society, under all their embar- 
rassments. He showed, that slaves were not at all embraced 
as the objects of the society, but the free people of colour; and 
that in regard to these, it proposed no coercion: everything 
was perfectly voluntary. He noticed the predictions which had 
been uttered, that none would be found willing to go ; but the 
fact was, that the society had never experienced any difficulty 
in obtaining emigrants: the number offered was always greater 
than their means of comfortable transportation. "And why,?' 
said he, "should they not go? Here they are in the lowest 
state of social degradation ; aliens, political, moral, social aliens; 
— strangers, though natives. There, they would be in the 
midst of their friends, and their kindred; at home, though born 
in a foreign land! " Mr. Clay took up the objection, from the 
inadequacy of the scheme to accomplish what it undertook. 
He denied that the Colonization Society ever contemplated, by 
its own exertions, to transport the whole African race within 
the limits of the United States, without the aid of the general 
and state governments. But to prove that it was not a chimeri- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 275 

cal but a practicable object, Mr. Clay entered into an actual 
calculation of what could easily be done, if the government of 
the United States and of the several States, would apply their 
resources to this object. From a reference to facts and figures, 
it was made evident, that there was nothing impossible in the full 
accomplishment of the object. While Mr. Clay has so warmly 
advocated the cause of the Colonization Society, and so firmly 
and strenuously opposed the mad schemes of the abolitionists, 
he has ever openly declared his hostility to slavery. On this 
subject, he says, "If I could be instrumental in eradicating this 
deepest stain upon the character of our country, and removing 
all cause of reproach, on account of it, by foreign nations, — if I 
could be only instrumental in ridding of this foul blot the 
revered State that gave me birth, or that not less beloved State, 
\vhich kindly adopted me as her son, I would not exchange 
the proud satisfaction which I should enjoy, for all the triumphs 
ever decreed to the most successful conqueror." 

He then proceeded in a strain of eloquent remark, to show, 
that there is a fitness in the scheme of sending these people to 
Africa, the land of their fathers, rather than to any other coun- 
try. He depicted, in striking colours, the evils, civil and moral, 
which are suffered from the existence of these people among 
us; and expatiated on the benefits which must arise from colo- 
nizing them on the African continent. "Every emigrant to 
Africa," said he, " is a missionary, carrying with him creden- 
tials in the holy cause of civilization, religion, and free institu- 
tions. Why is it, that the degree of success of missionary 
exertion is so limited, and so discouraging to those whose 
benevolence and piety prompt them? Is it not because the 
missionary is generally an alien and a stranger, perhaps of a 
different colour, and from a different tribe? There is a sort of 
instinctive feeling of jealousy and distrust towards foreigners, 
which repels and rejects them in all countries; and these feel- 
ings are in proportion to the ignorance and barbarism which 
prevails. But the African colonists, whom we send to convert 
the heathen, are of the same colour, the same family, the same 
physical constitution. When the purposes of the colony are 
fully understood, they will be received, as long lost brethren, 
restored to the embraces of their friends and their kindred, by 
the dispensations of a wise Providence." 



276 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

The Honourable C. F. Mercer, also addressed this meeting 
with his usual clearness and ability. The object of his speech 
was, to incite the society to do what they could to put an end 
to the slave trade; that they should address a memorial to every 
maritime government, in the language of the respective coun- 
tries, urging them to put an end to this nefarious traffic, by 
pronouncing it piracy. 

The matters comprehended in the Tenth Report of the Board 
presented to the Society in 1827, are such as have already been 
noticed in our history, and need not be repeated. The appen- 
dix contains a number of resolutions in favour of the coloniza- 
tion enterprise, by various ecclesiastical bodies, most of which 
Avill be found recorded in another part of this work. We have 
also in this appendix the memorial which the Board of Mana- 
gers presented to Congress, soliciting their aid, which is a can- 
did, sober, dignified document, and worthy of being preserved. 

The anniversary of 1828 was not less interesting, and the 
Report of the Board more animating than that of the preceding 
year. 

General Harper, of Baltimore, made the first speech on this 
occasion. Among other encouraging and stirring things he 
said: " So it must ever be, sir, with this undertaking. It is in 
harmony with the noblest and best feelings of the human heart ; 
and the mind itself expands and glows in the contemplation of 
its great and various merits. You must alter our nature before 
you can make us indifferent to African colonization. Before 
you can arrest its course, you must stifle the press, and lay an 
interdict on the liberty of speech. Already, the cool and calcu- 
lating statesman finds himself labouring by the side of the en- 
thusiastic devotee; and the secluded man of science attains by 
argument the same conclusion to which feeling impels the mul- 
titude. It is thus we have united in our ranks men of all capa- 
cities, all places, all denominations. We have gone to the 
meetings of the learned and astute, and they have favoured us. 
We have gone to the primary assemblies of the people, and 
they have favoured us. The people, sir, are the source alike 
of revenue and law. To them we have gone. We have called 
on their philanthropy, their patriotism, their religion. They 
have offered us their hearts, and their purses. Our agents 
have penetrated every district of the country, to explain our 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 277 

views, and to embody those who approve, to convince or per- 
suade those that are opposed, and to convert the irregular and 
precarious donations, upon which we have hitherto subsisted, 
into a concerted system of regular and steady contribution. 

Mr. Latrobe, of Baltimore, next addressed the meeting in 
support of a resolution, contemplating the acquisition of new 
territory, particularly at Cape Palmas and the island of Bula- 
ma; of both which places he gave a geographical description, 
and expatiated on the advantages which must attend the acqui- 
sition of territory so important. This speech is replete with 
important information respecting the whole western coast of 
Africa. 

The third speech on this occasion was delivered by Mr. Harri- 
son, of Lynchburg, Virginia. Mr. Harrison had already acquired 
no small celebrity among the friends of colonization, by a long 
and animated speech, delivered before the Lynchburg Coloni- 
zation Society, in which, as a native Virginian, he took more 
hberty in speaking of the evils of slavery than would have been 
readily accorded to a stranger; and, indeed, that speech would 
not have been tolerated in that State, since the abolition spirit 
of the North has roused the people's feelings, and opened their 
eyes to see the danger which threatened them. The speech 
now delivered before the society was elaborate, and indicative 
of an energetic and benevolent mind. 

The meeting was also addressed by Mr. Key, in his usual 
strain of clear, strong, good sense. Mr. Key has been from the 
commencement of the enterprise one of the most judicious and 
efficient members of the Board. 

Mr. Custis, of Arlington, also made a speech, characterized 
by his lively imagination, and by the peculiar associations of his 
mind, which he always exhibits without disguise. 

The report, as has been intimated, was full of encouragement 
and hope. The colonization horizon seemed evidently to grow 
brighter. 

The brig Doris left Hampton Roads on the 25th of February, 
1827, and after a passage of forty-five days, arrived at Liberia 
on the 11th of April. The whole number of passengers, nine- 
ty-three, enjoyed perfect health, and the only effects experienced 
from the climate was the loss of two children. In regard to the 
natives of North Carolina, in this expedition, it was remarked 
by Mr. Ashmun, that "all the change they seemed to have un- 
24 



2i3 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

dergone, was less a disease than a salutary effort of nature to 
accommodate the physical system of its subjects to the new in- 
fluences of a tropical climate." These emigrants were doubtless 
much indebted to Mr. William P. Matthews, supercargo and 
part owner of the Doris, for their very comfortable passage. 
They were immediately removed to a large building, erected 
for the purpose, at Caldwell, a settlement on the St. Paul's. 

Shortly before the arrival of the Doris, Lieut. Norris, of the 
Shark, had visited the United States Agency at the colony, and 
by his presence and exertions contributed to aid the influence 
of the colonial government for the suppression of the slave 
trade, and to strengthen sentiments of good will towards the 
settlement among the neighbouring tribes. The report of this 
officer was, " That he found the colony to be in a very flourish- 
ing condition ; the people contented and healthy, and the native 
tribes friendly." 

• By a decree of the Supreme Court of the United States, one 
hundred and forty-two recaptured Africans, in the State of 
Georgia, were placed under the humane provisions of the law 
of Congress, which authorizes the Executive to restore to their 
native land all such Africans as may have been illegally intro- 
duced into this country, and the ship Norfolk was employed to 
convey them to the Agency at Liberia. This vessel sailed from 
Savannah on the 10th of July, and anchored at Cape Mesu- 
rado on the 27th of August. Of this whole number, in one 
week after their arrival, not more than twenty remained a 
charge to the United States. They were taken into the service 
of the colonists for terms of from one to three years, and some 
immediately received wages for their labour. 

The Board were so much encouraged by the reports from 
the colony, that during the autumn of this year they despatched 
three vessels. The first of them was the brig Doris again, 
which sailed from Baltimore on the 10th of November, having 
on board one hundred and five emigrants. Of this whole num- 
ber, more than one half, namely, sixty-three, were liberated 
especially for colonization in Africa. The schooner Randolph 
was employed by the society to convey from Georgetown, South 
Carolina, twenty-six Africans, manumitted by a single benevo- 
lent individual, near Cherav/. This vessel sailed for the colony 
on the 5th of November. Subsequently, one hundred and sixty- 
four persons embarked in the brig Nautilus. These last were 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 279 

principally from the lower counties of North Carolina, and had 
enjoyed the advice and superintendence of the Society of 
Friends. 

The Doris, after a protracted voyage of sixty-one days, ar- 
rived at Liberia on the 15th of January, 1828. The only death 
which occurred was that of an aged female. 

The schooner Randolph, arrived on the 17th of January, and 
the Nautilus, on the 19th of February. From the too crowded 
situation of the passengers in the Nautilus, four children died, 
during the passage. After their arrival, the emigrants by the 
Randolph and Nautilus, suffered httle from the climate; but the 
passengers by the Doris were sorely afflicted, and twenty-four 
of their number fell victims to disease. The season, however, 
was one of the unhealthiest ever known. During the past year, 
the number of emigrants sent to Liberia, amounted nearly to 
five hundred: as many, certainly, as it would have been pru- 
dent to add to the colony in one year, if the resources of the 
society had been ever so ample. The whole number in the 
colony, at this time, was above twelve hundred. Large acces- 
sions were made during this year to the territory of the colony. 
Besides the country on Stockton creek, of which an account has 
already been given, perpetual and entire jurisdiction had been 
obtained over the Junk country, a territory south-east of Mon- 
rovia. They also obtained a region of country on the south 
branch of St. John's river. But the situation of these various 
acquisitions, will be better understood by a single glance at the 
map, than by any verbal description. 

Information was about this time received, that within a hun- 
dred and fifty miles from the colony, resides a comparatively 
civilized, and populous nation, where the horse is a common 
domestic animal ; and where the comforts of life are enjoyed in 
abundance. In this region, the Arabic is used as a written lan- 
guage, in the ordinary commerce of life. 

Two vice-presidents of the society. Col. John Eager Howard, 
of Maryland, and the Hon. William Phillips of Boston, finished 
their earthly career, during the present year. The Board had 
also to lament the death of Dr. Peaco, late physician to the 
colony, who died at Savannah on his return to Africa. 

The popular favour towards the society, appeared to be on 
the increase; and contributions to its funds were more liberal 
than in any former year. The spirit of emigration also in- 



280 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

creased, and more persons were offered to the Board, than in 
any former year. 

But no event of the past year seems to have had a more aus- 
picious bearing on the Colonization Society than tiie appropria- 
tion, by the Legislature of Maryland, of one thousand dollars 
annually, for ten years, to aid in the removal of the free coloured 
population of that State, to the African colony. 

The committee of the Board which had been directed to pre- 
sent a memorial to Congress, soliciting aid in carrying on their 
benevolent and patriotic scheme, reported, that they had exe- 
cuted that trust; and that the committee to whom the subject 
was referred, expressed the opinion, that it would not be easy 
to discern an object, to which the pecuniary resources of the 
Union could be applied, of greater importance to the national 
security and welfare, than to provide for the removal, in a 
manner consistent with the rights and interests of the several 
States, of the free coloured population within their limits. 
But the time of the session was so nearly come to an end, 
that there was no opportunity of any action on the report, 
but the prayer of the memorialists was earnestly recommended 
to the early attention of the House. 

Among the events which could not but be considered disas- 
trous, was the death of the Honorable Judge Washington, 
who had been the president of the society from its first organi- 
zation. This venerable man expired in Philadelphia, while 
engaged in the duties of his office, on the 26th of November, 
1S29, in the seventy-first year of his age. Judge Washington 
was the nephew of General Washington, who manifested his 
high esteem of him, by leaving him Mount Vernon, and a 
larger share of his property, than to any other person. He 
was a man of remarkable purity of moral character, and did 
not conceal his firm belief in the truth of the Christian religion, 
but made an open profession of the same in the Episcopal 
church, in which he was a regular communicant. His under- 
standing was excellent, and his diligence in study, during a 
great part of his life, could not be surpassed. His knowledge 
of the law was so perfect, that when he had an important 
cause committed to him, as an attorney, it was usually taken 
for granted by the court, that every precedent had been ex- 
amined and adduced, which had any bearing on the point at 
issue. And as a judge, his incorruptible integrity and unsus- 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 281 

pected impartiality, raised him very higli in the estimation, not 
only of the legal profession, but of the whole community. 
Judge Washington continued to the end of his life to feel a 
lively interest in the Colonization Society, although his press- 
ing professional duties prevented him from devoting as much 
of his time to its interests as he wished: but he was ever a 
liberal contributor to its funds. At the first annual meeting of 
the society, he delivered an address, an extract from which will 
not be inappropriate, in this place. 

"In the magnificent plans carrying on for the improvement 
and happiness of mankind, in many parts of the world, we 
cannot but discern the interposition of Almighty power, who 
alone could inspire and crown with success, these great pur- 
poses. But amongst them all, there is, perhaps, none, upon 
which we may more properly implore the blessing of heaven, 
than that in which we are now associated. Whether we con- 
sider the grandeur of the object, and the wide sphere of phi- 
lanthropy which it embraces, or whether we view the present 
state of its progress, under the auspices of this society, and under 
the obstacles which might have been expected from the cupid- 
ity of many, we may discover in each a certain pledge, that 
the same benignant hand which has made these preparatory 
arrangements, will crown our efforts with success. Having, 
therefore, these motives of piety to consecrate and strengthen the 
powerful considerations which a wise policy suggests, we may, 
I trust, C9nfidently rely upon the liberal exertions of the public, 
for the necessary means of efi"ecting this highly interesting 
object." 

Entertaining such views. Judge Washington was prepared 
to rejoice in all the successes of the institution over which he 
presided, and to meet with Christian fortitude and firmness, all 
the obstacles inevitably to be encountered in its progress. Pie 
did much to advance its interests, and was far from considering 
his obligations limited to the influence of his opinions, and the 
weight of his name. 

The resolution adopted by the Board, upon hearing of the 
decease of their president, was in the following words: "The 
Board having learned with the deepest regret, that the revered 
and distinguished President of the Colonization Society, the 
Honorable Bushrod Washington, expired at Philadelphia, on 
the 26th of November, and desirous of expressing their respect 
24* 



282 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

for the character, and grief for the loss of this eminent man, 
therefore. Resolved, that the members of this Board will wear 
crape on the left arm, for the space of thirty days ; and that 
a committee be appointed to express the cordial sympathy of 
this Board with the relatives of the deceased, and the affection- 
ate remembrance which the members cherish, of his eminent 
intellectual and moral worth," 

It has, in a former chapter, been mentioned, that the young 
men in the missionary school at Basle, in Switzerland, had 
turned their attention to West Africa, as the field of their 
labours. Of these Mr. Sessing was the only one who escaped 
the deleterious effects of the African climate; and he was 
obliged to leave Bassa, where he had been labouring fourteen 
months, to conduct Mr. Hegele back to Switzerland, who was 
exceedingly debilitated by disease. 

These disasters, however, did not discourage the young men 
of the seminary, nor the Missionary Society of Basle; but they 
immediately sent out Mr. Sessing again, with three brethren; 
and, as it had been suggested to the Rev. Dr. Blumhardt, that 
it might answer a good end, if these missionaries would take 
America in their way, that they might confer with the Mana- 
gers of the Colonization Society, in whose territory they were 
to be situated; these missionary brethren, accordingly, arrived 
at New York, bearing a letter from Dr. Blumhardt to Mr. 
Gurley, the Secretary of the American Colonization Society. 
The true spirit of the Swiss Society may be learned from the 
following brief extracts from the aforesaid letter: 

" Permit me, my dear sir, to introduce to you and your com- 
mittee, four of my dearly beloved missionary brethren, Messrs. 
Sessing, Dietschy, Buhrer, and Graner, with the wife of Mr. 
Sessing, who are going to Liberia as messengers of salvation, 
and who have been directed by our Missionary Society to 
make their passage to Africa by the way of North America, 
with the view, not only to explain personally to you, and your 
honorable committee, our sincere and warm feelings of Chris- 
tian affection towards you, and the sacred work of your hands, 
and to be the instruments of entering into a full and active 
communion of Christian fellowship and interests, with your 
Christian Society, but to make a modest trial, with your broth- 
erly advice, if some of our and your Christian brethren, under 
the blessing of God, might be united in an auxiliary society, in 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 283 

behalf of their missionary exertions amongst the poor negro 
tribes, in the neighbourhood of your African colony." — "Our 
God and Saviour has been pleased to try, by truly heavy ca- 
lamities, even the first beginning of our work in Africa. Five 
of our dearly beloved brethren have been reduced in the first 
year, to one, who is still struggling with difficulties from all 
sides ; but we all are permitted, by divine grace, to say with 
St. Paul, 'we are troubled on every side, yet not distressed;' 
we are perplexed, but not in despair; and we fully trust in the 
Lord, that by our dearly beloved brethren, though bearing 
about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, yet the life of 
Jesus will be manifested in their body." 

"Our brethren intend to commence their work with the 
Bassa people, in the neighbourhood of Liberia, while Mr. 
Dietschy, as agent of our society, in all external aff'airs and 
wants of our mission there, shall take up his permanent abode 
in the missionary house, at Monrovia, which our truly lament- 
ed friend, Mr. Ashmun, was so kind as to leave by his will to 
our German mission in Africa. 

*' Mr. Sessing intends to make provision of a small vessel for 
continuing the connexion of the Bassa Cove mission with the 
colony." 

At a public meeting, held in Philadelphia, with the mission- 
aries from Switzerland, the Rev. Mr. Sessing, one of their num- 
ber, made a deeply interesting address to the assembly, which, 
though pronounced in a broken manner, was well received, 
and was replete with views and considerations adapted to pro- 
mote the cause of African missions and colonization. 

During the year 1829, the Synod of Virginia resolved to 
establish a school at Liberia, and appointed Mr. Joseph Shep- 
herd, a coloured man, who had successfully conducted a school 
in Richmond, as their teacher; and he accordingly sailed in the 
Harriet. 

But a still more interesting accession to the colony was Mr. 
J. B. Russwurm,a young man of colour, who had been liberally 
educated, and graduated at Bowdoin College, Maine. This 
person undertook to publish a paper for the coloured people in 
the city of New York, in connexion with the Rev. Mr. Cornish. 
The sentiments expressed in this paper were in opposition to 
the principles of the Colonization Society, and were often ex- 



2S4 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

pressed with a violence which was offensive to many. But 
]\Tr, Russwurm was the enemy of this noble enterprise only 
because he did not understand its real principles. As soon as 
he had opportunity of a full examination of the subject, he 
declared himself a convert to the principles of the coloniza- 
tionists. And having thus changed his views, he soon gave a 
practical proof of his sincerity, by offering to go out to Liberia, 
and was cordially received by the Board. Few men, who 
have gone to Africa, have exerted a more considerable in- 
fluence than Mr. Russwurm, — for soon after his arrival, he set 
lip a paper entitled, "The Liberia Herald," which, for several 
years, he edited with such ability, that it attracted attention and 
obtained many subscribers in the United States. This gentle- 
man, however,*has been invited to act as the general agent, or 
rather governor of the colony of New Maryland, at Cape Pal- 
mas, where his administration up to the last accounts continued 
to give general satisfaction, both to the colonists, and to the 
managers of the society, in Baltimore. 

About the middle of this year, the managers in Washington, 
received a visit from two native Africans, who belonged to the 
nation so well known every where along the coast, imder the 
name of Kroomen. Six of these having gone aboard of a 
Mexican brig in quest of employment, lost their canoe, and 
having no means of reaching the shore, were brought to Ame- 
rica. One of them, called Prince Will, had been long in the 
service of Mr. Ashmun, and stood by him, as his devoted friend, 
when the attack was made upon the settlement by the natives. 
These Kroomen expressed a strong desire, that an American 
settlement should be made in their country, about two hundred 
miles south-east of Monrovia. These Africans were exhibited 
with advantage, at several public meetings, in our large cities : 
and were then sent back to their own country, with letters re- 
commending them to American merchants on the coast of 
Africa. 

The communications received from Liberia, were such as to 
induce the opinion, that the slave trade was still carried on in 
different parts of the coast, with no mitigation of the horrors 
which had before attended it. Dr. Randall gave it as his 
opinion, that the trade could only effectually be destroyed by 
ten or twelve well-armed, light, fast sailing schooners, which 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 285 

might touch at those places, from whence the slaves are taken; 
which should relieve one another and remain in this service the 
whole year. 

The vacancy which had occurred in the colonial agency, by 
the lamented death of Dr. Randall, was supplied by the election 
of Dr. Mechlin, already at Liberia. The Board expressed a 
strong confidence in the energy, intelligence; and prudence of 
this young gentleman. 

Dr. Mechlin had gone out with Dr. Randall, in the capacity 
of physician to the colony; but by being appointed colonial 
agent, he was necessarily called off from the performance of 
medical services; whereupon, the Board chose Dr. G. W. An- 
derson, of Hagerstown, Maryland, as physician and assistant 
agent of the colony of Liberia ; concerning whom, the Board 
observe, " The character, talents, and acquirements of this gen- 
tleman, give assurance, that the duties to which he is called, 
will be faithfully and ably executed." 

In consequence of the frequent change of colonial agents, the 
financial affairs of the Board began, about this time, to be 
embarrassed. Expenses had been increased at Monrovia, with- 
out the knowledge of the Board, and when the bills were for- 
warded, they were not prepared to liquidate the debts con- 
tracted. Much injury to the cause, arose from these pecuniary 
embarrassments, which, at one time, threatened the existence 
of the society and darkened the prospects of the colony. 

The general sentiment, however, was manifestly more and 
more favourable to the objects of the society. Resolutions of 
civil and ecclesiastical bodies recommending the objects of the 
society became so numerous, that it would be tedious to enu- 
merate them. The clergy, of all Christian denominations, 
entered cordially into the views of the Board, and many of 
them took up collections to aid its funds, on or about the fourth 
of July. 

As early as 1825, the Board had formed a constitution, or set 
of fundamental regulations for the government of the colony. 
As Mr. Gurley and Mr. Ashmun had, agreeably to the discre- 
tion granted to them, adopted for the colony a set of laws and 
regulations, which went immediately into force, and which 
had operated successfully, the committee now appointed by the 
Board to attend to this matter, were directed to consider whether 
these laws should be continued, amended, or repealed, and 



286 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Others introduced. In their report, they approved the same, 
and recommended that they be considered as in force, in the 
colony. 

The substance of the constitution, or fundamental laws of the 
colony, adopted by the Board, is contained in the following 
articles : — 

Article I. All persons born in the colony or removing 
thither, to be free and to enjoy the rights of citizens. 

Art. II. The Colonization Society shall make such laws and 
rules as they judge best; until they withdraw their agents, and 
resign the government into the hands of the people. 

Art. III. Society's agents to compose a Board and exercise 
judicial powers. 

Art. IV. Agents shall appoint all officers not appointed by 
the Board. 

Art. V. There shall be no slavery in the colony. 

Art. VI. The common law to be in force, as in the United 
States. 

Art. VII. Every settler to take an oath of allegiance at the 
age of twenty-one. 

Art. VIII. Agents authorized to make rules for cases not 
provided for. 

Art. IX. This constitution must be so administered, as not 
to interfere with the agents, and regulations of the United 
States. 

Art. X. Provides for alterations. 

Mr. Ashmun, after seeing the operation of the digest of laws 
formed for the colony, was able to suggest several alterations 
and additions, which he communicated to the Board before his 
death. This code the Board, after revision, adopted. The 
laws relate to the following particulars : 

1. Power of the colonial agent. 

2. Qualifications of voters. 

3. Annual appointment of civil officers. 

4. The officers to be chosen by the qualified voters, but the 
agent to have a negative. The officers to be thus chosen, are, 
a vice-agent, two councillors, a sheriff", a register, and a trea- 
surer, and for every settlement containing not less than sixty 
families, two commissioners of agriculture, two commissioners 
of health, and two censors. 

5. The vice-agent to consult with the agent, and in case of 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 287 

his death or absence, to assume the chief superintendence of the 
colony. 

6. The vice-agent and two councillors shall constitute a 
council. 

7. Vice-agent must consult his council in cases of impor- 
tance. 

8. The high-sheriff to preside personally, or by his deputies, 
at elections; act as marshal; execute processes, judgments, and 
commands of the courts. 

9. The secretary shall carefully keep the papers and records 
of the colony, and record the acts and proceedings of the agents 
and council, &c. 

10. The register shall record all public documents of the 
government. 

11. The treasurer shall receive and keep safely, all moneys 
and public securities, &c. 

12. Commissioners shall be the organs of government, and 
report to them. 

13. The censors shall act as conservators of public morals, 
and possess all the powers incident to grand jurors. 

14. The judiciary to consist of the agent, and justices to be 
appointed by him. All officers of court appointed by the agent. 

15. Relates to the militia of the colony. 

As many prejudices began to be artfully excited in the minds 
of the free people of colour in the United States, against the 
colonization scheme, and against the colony itself, the people of 
Monrovia, at a public meeting on the 27th of August, 1827, 
united in an " Address" to the coloured people of the United 
States, in which they undertook to give them correct informa- 
tion respecting the condition of the colony. This address is 
ably drawn up, and contains a clear and candid statement of 
facts in relation to the condition and contentedness of the colo- 
nists. And although it is long, yet, as it contains authentic 
information of the then state of the colony, it will be best to 
insert it entire. 

" As much speculation and uncertainty continues to prevail 
among the people of colour in the United States, respecting our 
situation and prospects in Africa ; and many misrepresentations 
have been put in circulation there, of a nature slanderous to 
us, and, in their effects, injurious to t/ietn; we felt it our duty, 



288 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

by a true statement of our circumstances, to endeavour to cor- 
rect them. 

"The first consideration which caused our voluntary remo- 
val to this country, and the object, which we still regard with 
the deepest concern, is liberty — liberty, in the sober, simple, but 
complete sense of the word: not a licentious liberty, nor a liber- 
ty without government, or which should place us without the 
restraint of sahitary laws — but that liberty of speech, action, 
and conscience, which distinguishes the free enfranchised citi- 
zens of a free State. We did not enjoy that freedom in our 
native country ; and, from causes which, as respects ourselves, 
we shall soon forget for ever, we were certain it was not there 
attainable for ourselves or our children. This, then, being the 
first object of our pursuit in coming to Africa, is probably the 
first object on which you will ask for information. And we 
must truly declare to you, that our expectations and hopes, in 
this respect, have been realized. Our constitution secures to 
us, so far as our condition allows, " all the rights and privileges 
enjoyed by the citizens of the United States ;" and these rights 
and privileges are ours. We are proprietors of the soil we live on, 
and possess the rights of freeholders. Our suffrages, and, what 
is of more importance, our sentiments and our opinions have 
their due weight in the government we live under. Our laws 
are altogether our own: they grow out of our circumstances; 
are framed for our exclusive benefit; and administered either 
by officers of our own appointment, or such as possess our con- 
fidence. We have a judiciary, chosen from among ourselves; 
we serve as jurors in the trial of others; and are liable to be 
tried only by juries of our fellow-citizens, ourselves. We have 
all that is meant by Liberty of Conscience. The time and 
mode of worshipping God, as prescribed to us in his word, and 
dictated by our conscience, we are not only free to follow, but 
are protected in following. 

"Forming a community of our own, in the land of our fore- 
fathers ; having the commerce, and soil, and resources, of the 
country at our disposal ; we know nothing of that debasing in- 
feriority with which our very colour stamped us in America: 
there is nothing here to create the feeling on our part — nothing 
to cherish the feeling of superiority in the minds of foreigners 
who visit us. It is this moral emancipation — this liberation of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 289 

the mind from worse than iron fetters — that repays us ten thou- 
sand times over, for all that it has cost us, and makes us grate- 
ful to God and our American patrons for the happy change 
which has taken place in our situation. We are not so self- 
complacent as to rest satisfied with our improvement, either as 
regards our minds or our circumstances. We do not expect to 
remain stationary. Far from it. But we certainly feel our- 
selves, for the first time, in a state to improve either to any pur- 
pose. The burthen is gone from our shoulders: we now breathe 
and move freely; and know not (in surveying your present 
state) for which to pity you most — the empty name of liberty, 
which you endeavour to content yourselves with, in a country 
that is not yours, or the delusion which makes you hope for 
ampler privileges in that country hereafter. Tell us, which is 
the white man, who, with a prudent regard to his own charac- 
ter, can associate with one of you, on terms of equality? Ask 
us, which is the white man who would decline such association 
with one of our number, whose intellectual and moral qualities 
are not an objection ? To both these questions we unhesita- 
tingly make the same answer: There is no such white man. 

" We solicit none of you to emigrate to this country : for we 
know not who among you prefers rational independence, and the 
honest respect of his fellow-men, to that mental sloth and care- 
less poverty which you already possess, and your children will 
inherit after you, in America. But if your views and aspira- 
tions rise a degree higher — if your minds are not as servile as 
your present condition — we can decide the question at once; 
and with confidence say, that you will bless the day, and your 
children after you, when you determined to become citizens of 
Liberia. 

"But we do not hold this language on the blessings of liberty 
for the purpose of consoling ourselves for the sacrifice of health, 
or the suflering of want, in consequence of our removal to Afri- 
ca. We enjoy health after a few months' residence in the coun- 
try, as uniformly, and in as perfect a degree, as we possessed 
that blessing in our native country. And a distressing scarcity 
of provisions, or any of the comforts of hfe, has for the last two 
years been entirely unknown, even to the poorest persons in 
this community. On these points there are, and have been, 
much misconception and some malicious misrepresentation in 
the United States. 
25 



290 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

"We have nearly all suffered from sickness, and, of the earliest 
emigrants, a large proportion fell in the arduous attempt to lay 
the foundation of the colony. But are they the only persons 
whose lives have been lost in the cause of human liberty, or 
sacrificed to the welfare of their fellow-men? Several out of 
every ship's company have, within the last four years, been 
carried off by sickness, caused by the change of climate. And 
death occasionally takes a victim from our number, without any 
regard at all to the time of his residence in this country. But 
we never hoped, by leaving America, to escape the common lot 
of mortals — the necessity of death, to which the just appoint- 
ment of Heaven consigns us. But we do expect to live as long, 
and pass this life with as little sickness as yourselves. 

" The true character of the African climate is not well under- 
stood in other countries. Its inhabitants are as robust, as heal- 
thy, as long lived, to say the least, as those of any other coun- 
try. Nothing like an epidemic has ever appeared in this colo- 
ny; nor can we learn from the natives, that the calamity of a 
sweeping sickness ever yet visited this part of the continent. 
But the change from a temperate to a tropical country is a 
great one — too great not to affect the health, more or less — and, 
in the cases of old people, and very young children, it often 
causes death. In the early years of the colony, want of good 
houses, the great fatigues and dangers of the settlers, their irre- 
gular mode of living, and the hardships and discouragements 
they met with, greatly helped the other causes of sickness, 
which prevailed to an alarming extent, and were attended with 
great mortality. But we look back to those times as to a sea- 
son of trial long past, and nearly forgotten. Our houses and 
circumstances are now comfortable; and, for the last two or 
three years, not one person in forty, from the Middle and South- 
ern States, has died from the change of climate. The disas- 
trous fate of the company of settlers who came out from Boston 
in the brig Vine, eighteen months ago, is an exception to the 
common lot of emigrants; and the causes of it ought to be ex- 
plained. Those people left a cold region in the coldest part of 
winter, and arrived here in the hottest season of our year. 
Many of them were too old to have survived long in any coun- 
try. They most imprudently neglected the prescriptions of our 
very successful physician, the Rev. Lott Gary, who has great 
experience and great skill in the fevers of the country, and de- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 291 

pended on medicines brought with them, which could not fail 
to prove injurious. And, in consequence of all those unfortu- 
nate circumstances, their sufferings were severe, and many- 
died. But we are not apprehensive that a similar calamity 
will befall any future emigrants, except under similar disad- 
vantages. 

"People now arriving have comfortable houses to receive 
them ; will enjoy the regular attendance of a physician in the 
slight sickness that may await them; will be surrounded and 
attended by healthy and happy people, who have borne the 
effects of the climate, who will encourage and fortify them 
against that despondency which, alone, has carried off several 
in the first years of the colony. 

" But you may say that even health and freedom, good as 
they are, are still dearly paid for, when they cost you the com- 
mon comforts of life, and expose your wives and children to 
famine, and all the evils of want and poverty. We do not dis- 
pute the soundness of this conclusion either: but we utterly 
deny that it has any application to the people of Liberia. 

"Away with all the false notions that are circulating about th6 
barrenness of this country : they are the observations of such 
ignorant or designing men, as would injure both it and you. 
A more fertile soil, and a more productive country, so far as 
it is cultivated, there is not, we believe, on the face of the earth. 
Its hills and its plains are covered with a verdure which never 
fades; the productions of nature keep on in their growth 
through all the seasons of the year. Even the natives of the 
country, almost without farming tools, without skill, and with 
very little labour, raise more grain and vegetables than they 
can consume, and often more than they can sell. 

" Cattle, swine, fowls, ducks, goats, and sheep, thrive without 
feeding, and require no other care than to keep them from 
straying. Cotton, coffee, indigo, and the sugar cane, are all 
the spontaneous growth of our forests, and may be cultivated 
at pleasure, to any extent, by such as are disposed. The same 
may be said of rice, Indian corn, guinea corn, millet, and too 
many species of fruits and vegetables to be enumerated. Add 
to all this, we have no dreary winter here, for one half of the 
year to consume the productions of the other half. Nature is 
constantly renewing herself, and constantly pouring her trea- 
sures, all the year round, into the laps of the industrious. We 



292 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

could say, on this subject, more; but we are afraid of exciting 
too highly the hopes of the imprudent. Such persons, we think, 
will do well to keep their rented cellars, and earn their twenty- 
five cents a day at the wheelbarrow, in the commercial towns 
of America, and stay where they are. It is only the industri- 
ous and virtuous that we can point to independence, and plen- 
ty, and happiness, in this country. Such people are nearly sure 
to attain, in a very few years, to a style of comfortable living, 
which they may in vain hope for in the United States; and 
however short we come of this character ourselves, it is only a 
due acknowledgment of the bounty of Divine Providence to 
say, that we generally enjoy the good things of this life to our 
entire satisfaction. 

"Our trade is chiefly confined to the coast, to the interior parts 
of the continent, and to foreign vessels. It is already valuable, 
and fast increasing. It is carried on in the productions of the 
country, consisting of rice, palm oil, ivory, tortoise shell, dye 
woods, gold, hides, wax, and a small amount of coffee; and it 
brings us in return, the products and manufactures of the four 
quarters of the world. Seldom, indeed, is our harbour clear of 
European and American shipping; and the bustle and throng- 
ing of our streets show something, already, of the activity of the 
smaller seaports of the United States. 

" Mechanics of nearly every trade are carrying on their vari- 
ous occupations: their wages are high, and a large number 
would be sure of constant and profitable employment. 

" Not a child or youth in the colony but is provided with an 
appropriate school. We have a numerous public library, and a 
court-house, meeting-houses, school-houses, and fortifications, 
sufficient, or nearly so, for the colony in its present state. 

" Our houses are constructed of the same materials, and fin- 
ished in the same style as in the towns of America. We have 
abundance of good building stone, shells for lime, and clay of 
an excellent quality for bricks. Timber is plentiful, of various 
kinds, and fit for all the different purposes of building and 
fencing. 

",Truly we have a goodly heritage : and if there is any thing 
lacking in the character or condition of the people of this colo- 
ny, it never can be charged to the account of the country: it 
must be the fruit of our own mismanagement, or slothfulness, 
or vices. But from these evils we confide in Him, to whom 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 293 

we are indebted for all our blessings, to preserve us. It is tbe 
topic of our weekly and daily thanksgiving to Almighty God, 
both in public and in private, and he knows with what 
sincerity we were ever conducted, by his Providence, to this 
shore. Such great favours, in so short a time, and mixed with 
so few trials, are to be ascribed to nothing but his special bless- 
ing. This we acknowledge. We only want the gratitude 
which such signal favours call for. Nor are we willing to close 
this paper without adding a heartfelt testimonial of the deep 
obligations we owe to our American patrons and best earthly 
benefactors, whose wisdom pointed us to this home of our na- 
tion, and whose active and persevering benevolence enabled us 
to reach it. Judge, then, of the feelings with which we hear the 
motives and doings of the Colonization Society traduced ; and 
that, too, by men too ignorant to know what that society has 
accomplished— too weak to look through its plans and inten- 
tions — or too dishonest to acknowledge either. But without 
pretending to any prophetic sagacity, we can certainly predict 
to that society the ultimate triumph of their hopes and labours, 
and disappointment and defeat to all who oppose them. Men 
may theorize, and speculate about their plans in America, but 
there can be no speculation here. The cheerful abodes of civi- 
lization and happiness which are scattered over this verdant 
mountain — the flourishing settlements Avhich are spreading 
around it — the sound of Christian instruction, and scenes of 
Christian worship, which are heard and seen in this land of 
brooding pagan darkness — a thousand contented freemen united 
in founding a new Christian empire, happy themselves, and the 
instruments of happiness to others — every object, every indivi- 
dual, is an argument, is demonstration, of the wisdom and good- 
ness of the plan of colonization. 

" Where is the argument that shall refute facts like these ? 
And where is the man hardy enough to deny them ?" 

The following States, by their Legislatures, have expressed 
in terms more or less favourable, their approbation of the plans 
of the American Colonization Society: Virginia, Georgia, Ma- 
ryland, Tennessee, New Jersey, Ohio, Connecticut, Kentucky, 
Delaware, Vermont, Indiana, and most of these have recom- 
mended the Colonization Society to the patronage of the gen- 
eral Government of the United States. 
25* 



294 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

At the close of the year 1829, the exports of the colony were 
estimated at seventy thousand dollars. 

At the anniversary next after the decease of Judge Washing- 
ton, Charles Carroll, Esq., of Carrolton, was chosen President of 
the American Colonization Society. 

During this year (1829) State Societies, auxiliary to the 
American Colonization Society, were formed, both in New 
York and Pennsylvania. At the meeting which resolved to 
form a society for the State of New York, Rev. Dr. Nott, Pre- 
sident of Union College, made an interesting speech, which is 
published at large in the African Repository for November, 
1829. In this speech Dr. Nott waived all discussion respecting 
the views and motives of those who first conceived the plan, 
but undertook to discuss the two questions, " Is the plan prac- 
ticable? Is it expedient?" 

In the city of Philadelphia, also, a Society for the State of 
Pennsylvania was formed, under very favourable auspices. 
This society came forward very opportunely with an offer of 
funds to the American Colonization Society, to aid in sending 
out a large number of emigrants, who were waiting to go, but 
whom the Board had not the means of sending. 

The Lynchburg Auxiliary Colonization Society has, from its 
commencement, manifested uncommon zeal in the cause. We 
have adverted already to the able and decided speech of Mr. 
Harrison, before that society. Now is the proper time to men- 
tion a lucid and eloquent speech of William C. Rives, Esq., 
before this society. Mr. Rives gives a succinct but perspicuous 
history of the society from its origin, and exhibits the present 
condition, government, and prospects of the society. After this 
comprehensive survey, Mr. Rives draws the conclusion, "that 
it is no longer problematical, whether a colony of free persons 
of colour can be established on the continent of Africa." He 
next takes up and considers various objections which had been 
made to this enterprise, and returns a solid answer to each of 
them, and undertakes to demonstrate, by a fair calculation, that 
there is nothing in the scheme of transporting the whole cq.- 
loured population, which is beyond the means and resources of 
the United States. In his conclusion, he says: "Nor let it be 
supposed that the people of the United States will derive from 
the successful prosecution of this enterprise no other benefit than 
grows out of the removal of this unprofitable and baneful class 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 295 

of population. Vice corrupts by example, but it poisons those 
only in contact with it. Virtue also finds a powerful auxiliary 
in the same weapon, and happily its influence is less restricted. 
The name and fame of good deeds circulate widely, and the 
moral beauty of this magnificent design shall exalt our national 
character above deeds of prowess in war, or skill in science and 
art. At home, its beneficent influence shall pervade all classes 
of society, administering pleasure to age, stimulus to manhood, 
and instruction to youth; constituting at the same time the 
evidence of a grateful recollection of past dispensations of Pro- 
vidence, and an appeal for the continuance of his goodness, 
guardianship and protection." 



CHAPTER XIX. 

THE COLONY UNDER DR. MECHLIN, 1830. 

The Board at Washington had the pleasure of receiving the 
following letter from Mr. Hodgson, a gentleman of rare at- 
tainments in oriental literature, who has for some years resided 
in the north of Africa. 

"Algiers, June 1, 1829. 

"The late travels of Captain Clapperton in the interior of 
Africa, have made invaluable contributions to science. The 
geography, the political and natural history of Nigritia, were 
heretofore as obscure as are the fountain and issue of its mys- 
terious Nile. So ignorant were the ancients of this remote 
country, that in the Augustan age of Rome, the fifth zone of the 
globe, comprehending the equatorial regions, was deemed inha- 
bitabilis aestu — uninhabitable from heat. It was reserved for 
the British traveller to visit and describe the populous kingdoms 
ol Soudan. 

"Associated with Major Denham in his first expedition from 
Tripoli, Capt. Clapperton traversed Fezzan and the desert of 
Tibbou, and reached Bournou, a great negro empire, the extent 
and power of which was represented to our own Ledyard, 



296 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

whilst at Cairo. Between Bonrnou and the river Niger or 
Qaorra, to the east, he the populous states of Haoussa, Gouber 
and Sackatoo. The town of Sackatoo, which was the limit of 
Capt. Clapperton's first expedition, is the capital of the Fella- 
tahs and the residence of the sultan, the renowned and learned 
Bello. 

"In the latter part of 1825, Capt. Clapperton proceeded to the 
Gulf of Benin, with the object of penetrating to Sackatoo and 
Bournou, in a direction opposite to that of his former expedition. 
He landed at Badagri, west of Dahomey, and his journey thence 
to Sackatoo, was marked by extreme hospitality from the negro 
nations through which he passed. His happy arrival at the 
capital of Sultan Bello, completed an accurate survey of this 
continent, from Tripoli to Benin. The untimely death of Capt. 
Clapperton at Sackatoo, leaves us deeply to regret that he had 
not survived to perform other voyages of discovery in that 
Cimmerian land, which has equally attracted the curiosity of 
science and the benevolence of philanthropy. The great objects 
of both will be much facilitated by the enterprise of this distin- 
guished pioneer. 

"Of all the nations of central Africa, described by Capt. Clap- 
perton, the Fellatahs are esteemed the most remarkable. The 
publication of his first journey to Soudan, represented this 
people as inhabiting the country of the negroes, but differing 
from them essentially in physical character. They have straight 
hair, noses moderately elevated, the parietal bones not so com- 
pressed as those of the negro, nor is their forehead so much 
arched. The colour of their skin is a light bronze, like that of 
the Wadreagans, or Melano Gsetulians, and by this character- 
istic alone, can they be classed in the Ethiopian variety of the 
human species. 

" The Fellatahs are a warlike race of shepherds, and have 
within a short period subjugated an extensive portion of Sou- 
dan. The lamented Major Laing, who arrived at Tombuctoo, 
assures us that they were then in possession of that far-famed 
city. It was an order from the Fellatah Governor which com- 
pelled him to leave Tombuctoo, and to his instigation or con- 
nivance is his death, probably, to be attributed. Mungo Park 
was killed by a party of these people, while descending the 
Quorra. They may be supposed to occupy the banks of this 
unknown river, from its rise to its termination. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 297 

" During the late visit of Capt. Clapperton to Sackatoo, his 
inquiries were particularly addressed to the history, the social 
and political condition of the Fellatahs. The publication of his 
narrative will be received with unusual interest, for this nation 
presents itself as a curious and important subject of philosophic 
speculation. The Fellatahs will probably erect one vast empire 
in Soudan, and the influence this power may exercise in the 
great question of African civilization, gives to them no ordinary 
importance. If Sultan Bello should be induced to abolish 
slavery, the most eflicient means will have been discovered for 
its entire suppression. The example of so great an empire, or 
the menace of its chief, would effectually check the inhuman 
cupidity or barbarism of the lesser tribes of the coast. Such an 
event would cause a great revolution in the commerce of these 
countries, and the arts of civilized life would speedily be adopted. 
Morocco, Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli, would lose their lucrative 
trade in slaves, which being no longer objects of barter, com- 
merce would seek the more convenient markets of the Atlantic 
coast, in preference to encountering the horrors and perils of the 
desert. This view of the subject has not escaped the INIoorish 
statesmen, who, it is known, have been using their influence 
with the negro governments, to obstruct the free access of 
Christians among them. The colony of Liberia is destined to 
have an agency in such a revolution of commerce, and will 
participate in the great advantages thence to result. 

" The history and character of the Fellatahs acquire import- 
ance; and in anticipation of the more extensive information to 
be derived from Capt. Clapperton's travels, some remarks are 
submitted upon this nation. 

" The Fellatahs are so denominated by the negroes; but the 
name by which they call themselves is i^e//an, which might be 
more correctly written Foulan, according to the sound of the 
syllables. The origin of the term Fellatahs is not known, but 
as they are anthropoklepths, like the Tuarycks, and steal 
negroes, to make slaves of them, it is probably an appellation 
of reproach, like that of Sergoo, given to these latter. They 
are known on the Senegal and Gambia, as Foolahs and Fouls. 
Mungo Park describes them under the first denomination, and 
M. Mollien under the second. The Fellatahs extend from the 
Atlantic to the confines of Darfour, and speak every where the 
same language. 



298 



HISTORY OF APRICAN COLONIZATIOy. 



"A vocabulary is here subjoined, with 
tions of words: 



Water 








Singular. 
Deam 






Plural. 


Fire 








Gheahingol 








Sun 
Moon 








Nandjee 
Lauro 








Man 








Gorkoo 






Gorbai 


Woman 








Debbo 






Eroubai 


Head 








Horee 






Koiee 


Eye 








Yeteree 






Gitee 


Hand 
Dog 








Djungo 
Rawano 






Djundai 
Dawaree 


Cow 
House 








Naga 
Sodo 






Nai 
Ouro 


Horse 








Putcho 






Putchee 


Cat 








Musoro 






Musodee 


Bird 








Sondo 






Chlullee 


Day 

Night 
Year 








Handee 
Djemma 
Dungoo 






Nyandee 

Baldee 

Doobee 


Adjectives suffer no 


change of gender. 






The pronouns 


personal 


are — 








Mee 




I 




Meenom 


t 




We 


An 




Thou 




Anoon 






Ye 


Kankoo 




He 




Kambai 






They 


Possessi 


ve pronouns 


are thus — 










Horee-! 


im 






My 


Head 






Djungo-an 
Sodo-mako 






Thy 
His 


Hand 

House 





"This vocabulary shows that the Fellatahs are not of Arabic 
origin, as suggested by the Revue Britannique, January num- 
ber, 1829, nor of Berber, as M. Mollien seems inclined to think. 
This nation issued probably from the elevated plateau, about 
the source of the Niger, where a temperate climate may be 
supposed to reign. As the Fellatahs are found in the vicinity of 
Abyssinia, they would be identified with the Falasha, of that 
country, if their language should be ascertained to be the same. 
Bruce says that the Falashas are Jews, and speak the ancient 
-/Ethiopian. About this language, little is known. 

" Negro languages possess a peculiar character. An investi- 
gation of the idioms of Tibbou, Bournou, Haoussa and Tom- 
buctoo, discovers that they have no distinctions of gender and 
number. Perhaps verbs are not inflected. If the complex 
languages of the Tuarycks on the north, and the Fellatahs to 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 299 

the south, which nations occupy co-extensive parallels of lati- 
tude, be compared with the simple, rude dialect of Soudan, it 
might be inferred that the great Author of the universe has 
made as broad a difference in the speech as in the skins of 
men. If a full investigation establish the fact that languages 
may be divided into white and black, then philosophy will de- 
mand illustrations of the moral history of man. 

" The exploration of Africa has been an object of constant 
solicitude to the British Government. To accomplish this, 
several expeditions have been sent, at great expense, and its 
enterprising travellers have penetrated across this continent, 
hitherto the terra incognita of geography. The interesting 
question of the rise and termination of the Quorra (Niger) has 
not yet, however, been completely solved. The Quarterly Re- 
view of the last year, infers from the observations made by 
Capt. Clapperton, that it runs into lake Tchad, in the kingdom 
of Bournou. Whether it takes a southerly direction, and empties 
into the gulf of Benin, or flowing easterly, it falls into lake 
Tchad, is a question yet subjudice, and we may enter the field 
of discovery with peculiar advantage.* 

"Our colony of Liberia is planted at a point of the African 
coast, which offers great facilities for voyages into the interior. 
The river Mesuradat takes its rise in the mountains of Kong, 
and in a district which, from mild temperature of climate, fer- 
tility of soil, and beautiful aspect of nature, is called by the 
natives, ^^/a^?^ — the country of God. It is probable that the 
Quorra has its source in the same elevated region, and that it 
interlocks with the Mesurada. If the Fellatahs have a western 
origin, they must be indigenous to these mountains; and it may 
be imagined that they have descended to the southern plains, 
as they now occupy the north. That negro tribe discovered by 
Mr. Ashmun, in the country adjacent to Liberia, which had 
advanced in arts and was familiar with the Arabic language, 
may be Fellatahs. 

"The solution of these questions would be interesting in 
science, and is important to Liberia, which is destined to be- 
come a great empire, and may now be esteemed the nucleus of 
African civilization. At no other point could it so favourably 

* The discovery of the mouths of the Niger occurred since this was written. 
t This is an error. The Mesurada, or Montserado, is a small river, the St. 
Paul's being much larger. 



300 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

commence. In the countries north of the Sahara, where the 
climate permits the white man to exist, the savage fanaticism 
of the Mahomedan rehgion would not tolerate a Christian set- 
tlement. Among the negroes of the Senegal, the Gambia, and 
the Rio Grande, that religion has taken so deep root that a 
Christian colony of negroes would be extirpated in obedience 
to the sanguinary precepts of the Koran. Liberia is on the 
confines of Islam, where the fetiche of the simple African does 
not require the blood of man, in the name of God. To the west 
of the colony, along the coast, are the fierce people of Ashantee 
and Dahomey, and a settlement further south, would have been 
too distant from the centre of Africa and from the coast of 
America. The selection, therefore, of the windward coast for 
the establishment of an American colony, was by providential 
direction. 

"The nations of the interior have already heard with aston- 
ishment and delight, that black men from America are settling 
on the coast, and that they possess the arts of the white man. 
To cultivate good intelligence with these nations, to make 
known the objects of the colony, its pacific and commercial 
character, will be deemed a wise policy. This purpose would 
be best effected by a mission from among the colonists. A 
small expedition from Monrovia, ascending the Mesurado to its 
head v/aters, and proceeding from the source of the Niger, 
along its course, would accomplish these objects, and at the 
same time make useful discoveries. Perhaps the solution of 
jhe qusestio vexata of geography, the rise and termination of 
the Niger, is reserved for the Liberian. Such an expedition is 
conveniently within the means of individual enterprise; it 
would promote the general interests of science, procure com- 
mercial advantages, and in the prospective of philanthropy, 
might have a happy and active influence in the suppression of 
the slave trade. 

" In this view, a small part of the national appropriation, 
might not be deemed misapplied for that object. Should it be 
reserved for individual undertaking, I now off'er a contribution 
of one hundred dollars, which are placed at the disposition of 
Peter S, Duponceau, Esq. A scientific expedition for African 
discoveries, is an object worthy of the American Philosophical 
Society, and under the direction of which, that now suggested, 
should be performed. William B. Hodgson." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 301 

Information has been received that Mr. Hodgson, the writer 
of the above interesting letter, has been elected a corresponding 
member of the Royal Asiatic Society of London ; also, that 
this gentleman has translated the four Gospels and the book of 
Genesis, into the language of the Berbers in Africa. 

The Colonization Society of Kentucky addressed a strong 
memorial to both houses of Congress, in favour of granting 
national aid in promoting a scheme in which the national wel- 
fare and character are so deeply involved. 

The armiversary of the American Colonization Society was 
held in the city of Washington, on the 18th of January, 1830. 
The meeting, as usual, was deeply interesting, and a number 
of able and animated speeches were delivered. Among the 
speakers on this occasion we find Philip J. King, Esq., G. W. 
P. Custis, Esq., J. H. B. Latrobe, Esq., Hon. Theo. Freling- 
huysen. 

• At this meeting the following resolution was passed, in ho- 
nour of the memory of their late President: 

'■^Resolved, That the society entertain a deep sense of the loss 
which it has sustained by the decease of its venerable Presi- 
dent, the Honourable Bushrod Washington, and that it will 
cherish an affectionate remembrance of his moral and intellec- 
tual worth." 

The above was moved by Walter Jones, Esq., and was 
unanimously adopted. 

Mr. Key then offered a resolution m honour of the memory 
of Dr. Richard Randall, their late colonial agent. Mr. Key 
portrayed his character and zeal in glowing colours, and then 
presented the following, viz: 

^^Resolved, That this society will cherish a sincere and affec- 
tionate remembrance of Dr. Richard Randall, late colonial 
agent of Liberia, and that the Board of Managers be author- 
ized to cause a monument to be erected in the colony, in com- 
memoration of his talents and his worth." 

On the 16th of January, this year, (1830,) the brig J^iberia, 
which had been chartered for the purpose, by the liberality of 
the friends of the cause in Philadelphia, sailed from Norfolk, 
with fifty-eight coloured passengers. The number was not as 
considerable as was expected; and only a few days after her 
departure, thirty slaves, liberated by Joel Early, arrived at 
26 



302 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Norfolk; and of the fifty-eight who sailed in the Liberia, forty- 
nine were emancipated slaves. 

Two Swiss missionaries, Messrs. Rudolph Dietschy and H. 
Grannr, together with Dr. Anderson, appointed to succeed Dr. 
Mechlin, as colonial physician, went out in the Liberia. 

At the close of the year 1830, twelve State Legislatures had 
expressed their approbation of the American Colonization 
Society. 

At the very close of the year 182 9, Henry Clay delivered a 
discourse before the Colonization Society of Kentucky, which, 
though long, deserves a place in this history. 

^^ Gentlemen of the Colonization Society of Kentucky: — I 
most sincerely wish that the task of addressing you on this occa- 
sion, had been assigned by the Board of Managers to some indi- 
vidual more competent than I am, to explain and illustrate and 
enforce the claims of the society to the friendly and favourable 
consideration of the public. I yield to none in a thorough per- 
suasion of the utility of the scheme of the society, in a profound 
conviction of its practicability, and in an ardent desire for its com- 
plete success. But I am sensible that there are many others who 
could more happily than I can, throw around the subject those 
embellishments which are best calculated to secure attention, 
and engage the cordial and energetic cooperation of the com- 
munity. When the application was first made to me to deliver 
this address, I hesitated to comply with it, because I appre- 
hended that my motives would be misconceived, and my 
language be misrepresented. Subsequent reflection determined 
me to adhere to the maxim of my whole life, to endeavour to 
render all the good in my power, without being restrained by 
the misconceptions to which I might expose myself. Li enter- 
ing upon the duty which has devolved upon me, I ask only the 
exercise of ordinary liberality, in judging the imperfections 
which will doubtless mark its performance. 

'•' In surveying the United States of North America, and their 
Territories, the beholder perceives, among their inhabitants, 
three separate and distinct races of men, originally appertain- 
ing to three different continents of the globe, each race varying 
from the others in colour, physical properties, and moral and 
intellectual endowments. The European is the most numerous ; 
and, as well from that fact, as from its far greater advance in 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 303 

civilization and in the arts, has the decided ascendency over the 
Other two, giving the law to them, controUing their condition, 
and responsible for their fate, to the Great Father of all, and 
to the enlightened world. The next most numerous and most 
intelligent race, is that which sprung from Africa ; the largest por- 
tion of which is held in bondage by their brethren, descendants 
of the European. The aborigines, or Indian race, are the least 
numerous, and, with the exception of some tribes, have but 
partially emerged from the state of barbarism in which they 
were found, on the first discovery of America. Whence, or 
how they came hither, are speculations for the research of the 
curious, on which authentic history affords no certain light. 

"Their future fortunes or condition, form no part of the sub- 
ject of this address. I shall, I hope, nevertheless, be excused 
for the digression of dedicating a few passing observations, to 
the interesting remnant of these primitive possessors of the 
New World. I have never been able to agree in the expedi- 
ency of employing any extraordinary exertions, to blend the 
white and copper-coloured races together, by the ceremony of 
marriage. There would be a motive for it, if the Indians were 
equal or superior to their white brethren, in physical or intel- 
lectual powers. But the fact is believed to be otherwise. The 
mixture improves the Indian, but deteriorates the European 
element. Invariably, it is remarked, that those of the mixed 
blood, among the Indians, are their superiors in war, in coun- 
cil, and in the progress of the useful arts, whilst they remain ni 
the rear of the pure white race, still farther than they are in 
advance of the pure Indian. In those instances (chiefly among 
the French) during the progress of the settlement of this conti- 
nent, in which the settlers have had most intercourse with the 
Indians, they have rather sunk to the level of their state, than 
contributed essentially to their civilization. 

" But if there be no adequate recommendation to the white 
race of an union, by intermarriage, with the Indian, we are en- 
joined, by every duty of religion, humanity, and magnanimity, 
to treat them with kindness and justice, and to recall them, if 
we can, from their savage to a better condition. The United 
States stand charged with the fate of these poor children of the 
woods, in the face of their common Maker, and in the presence 
of the world. And, as certain as the guardian is answerable 
for the education of his infant ward, and the management of 



304 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

his estate, will they be responsible here and hereafter, for the 
manner in which they shall perform the duties of the high trust 
%vhich is committed to their hands, by the force of circum- 
stances. Hitherto, since the United States became an indepen- 
dent power among the nations of the earth, they have gener- 
ally treated the Indians with justice, and performed towards 
them all the offices of humanity. Their policy, in this respect, 
was vindicated during the negotiations at Ghent, and the prin- 
ciples which guided them in their relations with the Indians, 
were then promulgated to all Christendom. On that occasion, 
their representatives, holding up their conduct in advantageous 
contrast with that of Great Britain and the other powers of 
Europe, said: 'From the rigour of this system, however, as 
practised by Great Britain and all the European powers in 
America, the humane and hberal policy of the United States 
has voluntarily relaxed. A celebrated writer on the laws of 
nations, to whose authority British jurists have taken particular 
satisfoction in appealing, after stating, in the most explicit man- 
ner, the legitimacy of colonial settlements in America, to the 
exclusion of all rights of uncivilized Indian tribes, has taken 
occasion to praise the first settlers of New England, and the 
founder of Pennsylvania, in having purchased of the Indians 
the lands they resolved to cultivate, notwithstanding their being 
])rovided with a charter from their sovereign. It is this exam- 
ple which the United States, since they became by their inde- 
pendence, the sovereigns of the territory, have adopted and 
organized into a political system. Under that system, the In- 
dians residing within the United States, are so far independent^ 
that they live under their own customs, and not under the 
laws of the United States; that their rights upon the lands 
where they inhabit or hunt, are secured to them by boundaries 
defined in amicable treaties between the United States and 
themselves; and that whenever those boundaries are varied, it 
is also by amicable and voluntary treaties, by which they 
receive from the United States ample compensation for every 
right they have to the land ceded by them. They are so far 
dependent, as not to have the right to dispose of their lands, to 
any private person, nor to any power other than the United 
States, and to be under their protection alone, and not under 
that of any other power. Whether called subjects, or by what- 
ever name designated, such is the relation between them and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 305 

the United States. That relation is neither asserted now for 
the first time, nor did it originate with the treaty of Greenville. 
These principles have been uniformly recognized by the In- 
dians themselves, not only by that treaty, but in all the other 
previous as well as subsequent treaties between them and the 
United States.' Such was the solemn annunciation to the whole 
world, of the principles and of the system regulating our rela- 
tions with the Indians, as admitted by us and recognized by them. 
There can be no violation of either, to the disadvantage of the 
weaker party, which will not subject us as a nation, to the just 
reproaches of all good men, and which may not bring down upon 
us the maledictions of a more exalted and powerful tribunal. 

" Whether the Indian portion of the inhabitants of the United 
States will survive or become extinct, in the progress of popu- 
lation which the European race is rapidly making from the 
shores of the Atlantic to those of the Pacific ocean, provided 
they are treated with justice and humanity, is a problem of 
less importance. The two races are not promiscuously min- 
gled together, but are generally separate and distinct communi- 
ties. There is no danger to the whites or to their purity, from 
the power or from the vices of the Indians. The case is widely 
different with those who form the immediate object of this ad- 
dress. 

"The African part of our population, or their ancestors, were 
brought hither forcibly and by violence, in the prosecution of 
the most abominable trafiic, that ever disgraced the annals of 
the human race. They were chiefly procured, in their native 
country, as captives in war, taken, and subsequently sold by 
the conqueror, as slaves to the slave trader. Sometimes the 
most atrocious practices of kidnapping were employed, to ob- 
tain possession of the victims. Wars were frequent between 
numerous and barbarous neighbouring tribes, scattered along the 
coasts, or stretched upon the margin of large rivers of Africa. 
These wars were often enkindled and prosecuted for no other 
object, than to obtain a supply of subjects for this most shock- 
ing commerce. In these modes, husbands were torn from their 
wives, parents from their children, brethren from each other, 
and every tie, cherished and respected among men, was violated. 
Upon the arrival at the African coast, of the unfortunate be- 
ings thus reduced to slavery, they were embarked on board of 
ships carefully constructed and arranged to contain the greatest 



306 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

amount of human beings. Here they were ironed and fastened 
in parallel rows, and crowded together so closely, in loathsome 
holds, as not to have room for action or for breathing whole- 
some air. The great aim was, to transport the largest possible 
number, at the least possible charge, from their native land 
to the markets for which they were destined. The greediness 
of cupidity was frequently disappointed and punished in its 
purposes, by the loss of moieties of whole cargoes of the sub- 
jects of this infamous commerce, from want and suffering and 
disease, on the voyage. How much happier were they who 
thus expired, than their miserable survivors! 

"These African slaves were brought to the continent of Amer- 
ica, and the islands adjacent to it, and formed the parent stock 
of the race now amongst us. They were brought to the colo- 
nies, now constituting the United States, under the sanction 
and by the authority of British laws, which, at an early period 
of our colonial existence, admitted and tolerated the trade. It 
is due to our colonial ancestors to say, that they frequently and 
earnestly, but unsuccessfully, remonstrated to the British Crown 
against the continuance of the practice. The introduction of 
slavery into this country is not, therefore, chargeable to them, 
but to a government in which they had no voice, and over which 
they had no control. It is equally due to our parent State to 
advert to (he honourable fact, that, in the midst of the Revolu- 
tionary war, when contending for her own independence and 
liberty, she evinced the sincerity of the spirit in which those 
remonstrances had been addressed to the British throne, by de- 
nouncing under the severest penalties, the further prosecution of 
the slave trade, within her jurisdiction. And I add, with great 
satisfaction, that the Congress of the United States passed an 
act abolishing the trade, as early as by their constitution it was 
authorized to do. On the second day of March, 1807, the act 
was passed, for which it was my happy lot to vote, the first 
section of which enacts, 'That from and after the first day of 
January, 1808, it shall not be lawful to import or bring into the 
United States, or the territories thereof, from any foreign king- 
dom, place, or country, any ii^gro, mulatto, or person of colour, 
with intent to hold, sell, or dispose of such negro, mulatto, or 
person of colour, as a slave, or to be held to service or labour.' 
Thus terminated, we may hope for ever, in the United States, a 
disgraceful traffic, which drew after it a train of enormities 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 307 

surpassing in magnitude, darkness, and duration, any that ever 
sprang from any trade pushed by the enterprise or cupidity of 
man. 

" The United States, as a nation, are not responsible for the 
original introduction, or the subsequent continuance of the slave 
trade. Whenever, as has often happened, their character has 
been assailed in foreign countries, and by foreign writers, on 
account of the institution of slavery among us, the justness of 
that vindication has been admitted by the candid, which trans- 
fers to a foreign government the origin of the evil. Nor are the 
United States, as a sovereign power, responsible for the continu- 
ance of slavery within their limits, posterior to the establish- 
ment of their Independence ; because by neither the articles of 
confederation, nor by the present constitution, had they power 
to put an end to it by the adoption of any system of emancipa- 
tion. But from that epoch, the responsibiUty of the several 
States in which slavery was tolerated commenced, and on them 
devolved the momentous duty of considering whether the evil 
of African slavery is incurable, or admits of a safe and practical 
remedy. In performing it, they ought to reflect, that if when a 
given remedy is presented to their acceptance, instead of a due 
examination and deliberate consideration of it, they promptly 
reject it, and manifest an impatience whenever a suggestion is 
made of any plan to remove the evil, they will expose them- 
selves to the reproach of yielding to the illusions of self-interest, 
and of insincerity in the professions which they so often make 
of a desire to get rid of slavery. It is a great misfortune, grow- 
ing out of the actual condition of the several States, some being 
exempt, and others liable to this evil, that they are too prone to 
misinterpret the views and wishes of each other in respect to it. 
The North and the South and the West, when they understand 
each other well, must be each convinced, that no other desire is 
entertained towards the others by any one of them, than for 
their welfare and prosperity. If the question were submitted, 
whether there should be either immediate or gradual emanci- 
pation of all the slaves in the United States, without their remo- 
val or colonization, painful as it is to express the opinion, I have 
no doubt that it would be unwise to emancipate them. For I 
believe, that the aggregate of the evils which would be engen- 
dered in society, upon the supposition of such general emanci- 
pation, and of the liberated slaves remaining promiscuously 



308 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

among us, would be greater than all the evils of slavery, great 
as they unquestionably are. 

" The several States of the Union were sensible of the respon- 
sibility which accrued to them, on the establishment of the In- 
dependence of the United States, in regard to the subject of 
slavery. And many of them, beginning at a period prior to the 
termination of the Revolutionary war, by successive but distinct 
acts of legislation, have effectively provided for the abolition of 
slavery, within their respective jurisdictions. More than thirty 
years ago, an attempt was made in this Commonwealth to adopt 
a system of gradual emancipation, similar to that which the 
illustrious Franklin had mainly contributed to introduce, in the 
year 1779, in the State founded by the benevolent Penn. And, 
among the acts of my life which I look back to with most satis- 
faction, is that of my having cooperated with other zealous and 
intelligent friends, to procure the establishment of that system 
in this State. We believed that the sum of good which would 
have been attained by the state of Kentucky, in a gradual 
emancipation of her slaves, at that period, would have far trans- 
cended the aggregate of mischief which might have resulted to 
herself and the Union together, from the gradual liberation of 
them, and their dispersion and residence in the United States. 
We were overpowered by numbers, but submitted to the deci- 
sion of the majority with the grace which the minority, in a re- 
public, should ever yield to such a decision. I have, neverthe- 
less, never ceased, and never shall cease, to regret a decision, 
the effects of which have been to place us in the rear of our 
neighbours, who are exempt from slavery, in the state of agri- 
culture, the progress of manufactures, the advance of improve- 
ment, and the general prosperity of society. 

" Other States, in which slavery exists, have not been un- 
mindful of its evils, nor indifferent to an adequate remedy for 
their removal. But, most of them have hitherto reluctantly 
acquiesced in the continuance of these evils, because they 
thought they saw no practical scheme for their removal, which 
was free from insuperable objection and difficulty. Is there 
then, really, no such remedy ? Must we endure, perpetually, 
all the undoubted mischiefs of the state of slavery, as it affects 
both the free and bond portions of the population of these 
States? Already the slaves may be estimated at two millions, 
and the free population at ten, the former being in the propor- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 309 

tion of one to five of the latter. Their respective numbers will 
probably duplicate in periods of thirty-three years. In the year 
1863 the number of the whites will probably be twenty, and 
of the blacks four millions-, in 1 896, forty and eight; and in 
the year 1929, about a century, eighty and sixteen millions. 
What mind is sufficiently extensive in its reach, what nerves 
sufficiently strong, to contemplate this vast and progressive 
augmentation, without an awful foreboding of the tremendous 
consequences? If the two descriptions of population were 
equally spread and intermingled over the whole surface of the 
United States, their diffusion might diminish the danger of their 
action and corrupting influence upon each other. But this is 
not the state of the fact. The slaves of the United States are 
chiefly restricted to one quarter of the Union, which may be 
described with sufficient general accuracy, by a boundary, be- 
ginning with the mouth of the Potomac river, extending to its 
head, thence to the Ohio river, and down it and the Mississippi 
to the Gulf of Mexico, and with that and the Atlantic ocean, 
and the Bay of Chesapeake, to the beginning. Maryland, De- 
laware, Missouri, a part of Louisiana and Arkansas, compose 
the whole of the residue of the slave district of the United States. 
Within those limits all our slaves are concentrated ; and, with- 
in a portion of them, irresistible causes tend inevitably to their 
further concentration. In one of the States, comprised within 
these limits, the slave stock had, at the last census, the superi- 
ority in numbers, whilst in several others, the enumeration ex- 
hibits the two races in nearly equal proportions. 

« Time alone, which unveils every thing permitted men to 
see, can disclose the consequences, now wrapt in futurity, of 
the state of things which I have slightly touched. But, without 
violating his prerogative, we may venture to catch, in anticipa- 
tion, a glimpse of some of them. 

« The humanity of the slave States of the Union has prompt- 
ed them greatly to meliorate the condition of slaves. They are 
protected, in all instances, by just laws, from injury extending to 
their lives, and in many, from cruelty applied to their persons. 
Public opinion has done even more than the laws in elevating 
their condition in the scale of human existence. In this State, 
as well as in others, they are treated with much kindness, and 
abundantly supplied with substantial food of meat and bread 
and vegetables, and comfortable clothing, whilst they are mode- 



310 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

rately tasked in labour. But still they are subject to many civil 
disabilities, and there is a vast space between them and the race 
of freemen. Our laws continue to regard them as property, 
and, consequently, as instruments of labour, bound to obey the 
mandate of others. As a mere labourer, the slave feels that he 
toils for his master, and not for himself; that the laws do not 
recognize his capacity to acquire and hold property, which de- 
pends altogether upon the pleasure of his proprietor; and that 
all the fruits of Iiis exertions are reaped by others. He knows 
that, whether sick or well, in times of scarcity or abundance, 
his master is bound to provide for him, by the all-powerful in- 
fluence of the motive of self-interest. He is generally, there- 
fore, indifferent to the adverse or prosperous fortunes of his 
master, being contented if he can escape his displeasure or chas- 
tisement, by a careless and slovenly performance of his duties. 

" This is the state of the relation of master and slave, prescrib- 
ed by the law of its nature, and founded in the reason of things. 
There are undoubtedly many exceptions, in which the slave 
dedicates himself to his master with a zealous and generous 
devotion, and the master to the slave with a parental and affec- 
tionate attachment. But it is not my purpose to speak of those 
particular though endearing instances of mutual regard, but of 
the general state of the unfortunate relation. 

" That labour is best, if it can be commanded, in which the 
labourer knows that he will derive the profits of his industry ; 
that his employment depends upon his diligence, and his reward 
upon his assiduity. He has then every motive to excite him to 
exertion, and to animate him in perseverance. He knows that 
if he is treated badly he can exchange his employer for one 
who will better estimate his service; that he does not entirely 
depend upon another's beck and nod ; and that whatever he 
earns is his, to be distributed by himself, as he pleases, among 
his wife and children and friends, or enjoyed by himself He 
feels, in a word, that he is a free agent, with rights and privileges 
and sensibiUties. 

" Wherever the option exists to employ, at an equal hire, free 
or slave labour, the former will be decidedly preferred, for the 
reasons already assigned. It is more capable, more diligent, 
more faithful ; and, in every respect, worthy of more confi- 
dence. In the first settlement of some countries, or communi- 
ties, capital may be unable to command the free labour which 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 311 

It wants, and it may, therefore, purchase that of slaves. Such 
was, and yet is, the condition of many parts of the United 
States. But there are others, and they are annually increasing 
in extent, in which the labour of freemen can be commanded 
at a rate quite as cheap as that of slaves, in States which tole- 
rate slavery. 

"Although in particular States, or parts of States, the increase 
of the African portion of population would seem to be greater 
than that of the European stock, this fact is believed to be sus- 
ceptible of an explanation, from the operation of causes of emi- 
gration, which would not assign to it greater prolific powers. 
On the contrary, all the enumerations of the people of the 
United States sustain clearly the position, that, contrasting the 
whole European race throughout the Union with the whole 
of the African race, bond and free, also throughout the Union, 
the former multiplies faster than the latter. As time elapses 
our numbers will augment, our deserts become peopled, and 
our coimtry will become as densely populated as its agri- 
cultural, manufacturing, and commercial faculties will admit. 
In proportion to the density of population are the supply and 
the wages of labour. The demand for labour also increases 
with the augmentation of numbers, though probably not in 
the same proportion. Assuming our present population at 
twelve millions, when it shall be increased, as in about thirty 
years it will be, to twenty-four millions, we shall have double 
the anidunt of available labour that we can command at pre- 
sent. And there will consequently be a great, though probably 
not proportionate, reduction in the wages of labour. As the 
supply of labourers increases, a competition will arise between, 
not only individuals, but classes, for employment. The supe- 
rior qualities which have been attributed to free labour will 
ensure for that the preference, wherever the alternative is pre- 
sented of engaging free or slave labour, at an equal price. This 
competition, and the preference for white labour, are believed 
to be already discernible in parts of Maryland, Virginia, and 
Kentucky, and probably existed in Pennsylvania and other 
States north of Maryland, prior to the disappearance of slaves 
from among them. The march of the ascendency of free 
labour over slave, will proceed from the North to the South, 
gradually entering first the States nearest to the free region. 



312 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Its progress would be more rapid, if it were not impeded by the 
check resulting from the repugnance of the white man to work 
among slaves, or where slavery is tolerated. 

" In proportion to the multiplication of the descendants of the 
European stock, and the consequent diminution of the value of 
slave labour, by the general diminution of wages, will there be 
an abatement in the force of motives to rear slaves. The mas- 
ter will not find an adequate indemnity in the price of the adult 
for the charges of maintaining and bringing up the offspring. 
His care and attention will relax; and he will be indifferent 
about incurring expenses when they are sick, and in providing 
for their general comfort, when he knows that he will not be 
ultimately compensated. There may not be numerous instances 
of positive violation of the duties of humanity, but every one 
knows the difference between a negligence, which is not crimi- 
nal, and a watchful vigilance stimulated by interest, which 
allows no want to be unsupplied. The effect of this relaxed 
attention to the offspring will be, to reduce the rates of general 
increase of the slave portion of our population, whilst that of 
the other race, not subject to the same neglect, will increase and 
fill up the void. A still greater effect, from the diminution of 
the value of labour, will be that of voluntary emancipations; 
the master being now anxious to relieve himself from a bur- 
then, without profit, by renouncing his right of property. One 
or two facts will illustrate some of these principles. Prior to 
the annexation of Louisiana to the United States, the supply of 
slaves from Africa was abundant. The price of adults was 
generally about one hundred dollars, a price less than the cost 
of raising an infant. Then it was believed that the climate of 
that province was unfavourable to the rearing of negro chil- 
dren, and comparatively few were raised. After the United 
States abolished the slave trade, the price of adults rose very 
considerably, greater attention was consequently bestowed on 
their children, and now, no where is the African female more 
prolific than she is in Louisiana, and the climate of no one of 
the Southern States is supposed to be more favourable to rear- 
ing the offspring. The serfs of Russia possess a market value 
inferior to that of the African slaves of the United States ; and, 
although the lord is not believed to be bound to provide for the 
support of his dependent, as the American master is for his 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 313 

slave, voluntary manumissions of the serf are very frequent, in- 
fluenced in some degree, no doubt, by his inconsiderable value. 

" What has tended to sustain the price of slaves in the United 
States has been that very fact of the acquisition of Jjouisiana, 
but especially the increasing demand for cotton, and the conse- 
quent increase of Us cultivation. The price of cotton, a much 
more extensive object of culture than sugar cane, regulates the 
price of slaves as unerringly as any one subject whatever is regu- 
lated by any standard. As it rises in price, they rise ; as it falls, 
they fall. But the multiplication of slaves, by natural causes, 
must soon be much greater than the increase of the demand for 
them ; to say nothing of the progressive decline which has 
taken place in that great Southern staple, within a few years, 
and which there is no reason to believe will be permanently 
arrested. Whenever the demand for the cultivation of sugar 
and cotton comes to be fully supplied, the price of slaves will 
begin to decline ; and as that demand cannot possibly keep 
pace with the supply, the price will decline more and more. 
Farming agriculture cannot sustain it; for it is believed that 
no where in the farming portion of the United States would 
slave labour be generally employed, if the proprietor were not 
tempted to raise slaves by the high price of the Southern mar- 
ket, which keeps it up in his own. 

" Partial causes may retard the decline in the value of slaves.. 
The tendency of slaves is, to crowd into those countries or dis- 
tricts, if not obstructed by the policy of States, where their 
labour is most profitably employed. This is the law of their 
nature, as it is the general law of all capital and labour. Tlie 
slave trade has not yet been effectively stopt in the island of 
Cuba. Whenever it is, as slaves can be there more profitably 
employed, on more valuable products than in the United States, 
and as the supply there is much below the demand which will 
arise out of the susceptibilities of the island for agricultural pro- 
duce, they will rise in price much higher there than in the 
United Slates. If the laws do not forbid it, vast numbers will 
be exported to that island. And if they do prohibit it, many 
will be smuggled in, tempted by the high prices which they will 
bear. 

" But neither this, nor any other conceivable cause, can for 
any length of time check the fall in the value of slaves to which 
they are inevitably destined. We have seen that, as slaves 
27 



314 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

diminish in price, the motive of the proprietors of them to rear 
the offspring will abate, that consequent neglect in providing for 
their wants will ensue, and consequent voluntary emancipation 
will take place. That adult slaves will, in process of time, sink 
in value even below a hundred dollars each, I have not a doubt. 
This result may not be brought about by the termination of the 
first period of their duplication, but that it will come, at some 
subsequent, and not distant period, I think perfectly clear. 
Whenever the price of the adult shall be less than the cost of 
raising him from infancy, what inducement will the proprietor 
of the parent have to incur that expense ? In such a state of 
things, it will be in vain that the laws prohibit manumission. 
No laws can be enforced, or will be respected, the effect of 
which is the ruin of those on whom they operate. In spite of 
all their penalties the liberation or abandonment of slaves will 
take place. 

"As the two races progressively multiply and augment the 
source of supply of labour, its wages will diminish, and the pre- 
ference already noticed will be given of free to slave labour. 
But another efiect will also arise. There will be not only a 
competition between the two races for employment, but a strug- 
gle, not perceptible perhaps to the superficial observer, for subsis- 
tence. In such a struggle, the stronger and more powerful race 
will prevail. And as the law which regulates the state of popula- 
tion in any given community, is derived from the quantity of 
its subsistence, the further consequence would be an insensible 
decline in the increase of the weaker race. Pinched by want, 
and neglected by their masters, who would regard them as a 
burthen, they would be stimulated to the commission of crimes, 
and especially those of a petty description. 

"When we consider the cruelty of the origin of negro slave- 
ry, its nature, the character of the free institutions of the whites, 
and the irresistible progress of public opinion, throughout Ame- 
rica as well as in Europe, it is impossible not to anticipate fre- 
quent insurrections among the blacks in the United States. 
They are rational beings like ourselves, capable of feeling, of 
reflection, and of judging of what naturally belongs to them as 
a portion of the human race. By the very condition of the rela- 
tion which subsists between us, we are enemies of each other. 
They know well the wrongs which their ancestors suffered at the 
hands of our ancestors, and the wrongs which they believe they 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATIOX. 315 

continue to endure, although they maybe unable to avenge them. 
They are kept in subjection only by the superior intelligence 
and superior power of the predominant race. Their brethren 
have been liberated in every part of the continent of America, 
except in the United States and the Brazils. I have just seen 
an act of the President of the Republic of the United Mexican 
States, dated no longer ago than the 15th of September last, by 
which the whole of them in that Republic have been emanci- 
pated. A great effort is now making in Great Britain, which 
tends to the same ultimate effect, in regard to the negro slaves 
in the British West Indies. 

" Happily for us, no such insurrection can ever be attended 
with permanent success, as long as our Union endures. It 
would be speedily suppressed by the all-powerful means of the 
United States; and it would be the madness of despair in the 
blacks that should attempt it. But if attempted in some parts 
of the United States, what shocking scenes of carnage, rapine, 
and lawless violence, might not be perpetrated before the arri- 
val at the theatre of action of a competent force to quell it ! 
And after it was put down, what other scenes of military rig- 
our and bloody executions would not be indispensably neces- 
sary to punish the insurgents, and impress their whole race 
with the influence of a terrible example! 

"Of all the descriptions of our population, and of either por- 
tion of the African race, the free people of colour are, by far, as a 
class, the most corrupt, depraved, and abandoned. There are 
many honourable exceptions among them, and I take pleasure 
in bearing testimony to some I know. It is not so much their 
fault as the consequence of their anomalous condition. Place 
ourselves, place any men in the like predicament, and similar 
effects would, follow. They are not slaves, and yet they are 
not free. The laws, it is true, proclaim them free ; but preju- 
dices, more powerful than any laws, deny them the privileges 
of freemen. They occupy a middle station, between the free 
white population and the slaves of the United States, and the 
tendency of their habits is to corrupt both. They crowd our 
large cities, where those who will work can best procure suita- 
ble employment, and where those who addict themselves to 
vice can best practice and conceal their crimes. If the vicious 
habits and propensities of this class, were not known to every 
man of attentive observation, they would be demonstrated by 



316 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the unerring test of the census. According to the last enumer- 
ation of the inhabitants of the United States, it appeared that 
the rate of its annual increase, was only about two and a half 
per cent., whilst that of the other classes was about three. No 
other adequate cause for this disproportion can be assigned, but 
that of the improvidence and vices of the class referred to. If 
previous enumerations exhibited different results, they were 
owing chiefly to the accession of numbers, which it received 
by the acquisition of Louisiana, and the events of St. Domin- 
go. But, if the reasoning which I have before employed, be 
correct, this class is destined, by voluntary manumission or 
abandonment, to increase and ultimately, perhaps, to be more 
numerous in the United States, than their brethren in bondage, 
if there be no provision for their removal to another country. 

"Is there no remedy, I again ask, for the evils of which I have 
sketched a faint and imperfect picture ? Is our posterity doom- 
ed to endure for ever not only all the ills flowing from the state 
of slavery, but all which arise from incongruous elements of 
population, separated from each other by invincible prejudices, 
and by natural causes? Whatever may be the character of 
the remedy proposed, we may confidently pronounce it inade- 
quate, unless it provides efficaciously for the total and absolute 
separation, by an extensive space of water or of land, at least, 
of the white portion of our population from that which is free 
of the coloured. 

" This brings me to the consideration of the particular scheme 
of the American Colonization Society, to which this is auxiliary. 
That scheme does not owe the first conception of its design to 
any individuals, by whose agency the society was first consti- 
tuted. Several of them, and especially the late Rev. Mr. Fin- 
ley, of New Jersey, and Mr. Caldwell, of the District of Colum- 
bia, were entitled to great praise for their spirited exertions in 
the formation and organization of the society. But the original 
conception of such a project is to be traced to a date long an- 
terior to their laudable eff'orts on this subject. However diffi- 
cult it might have been supposed to be in the execution, it was 
an obvious remedy, and the suggestion of it may be referred 
back to a period as remote as the Revolutionary War, The 
State of Virginia, always pre-eminent in works of benevolence, 
prior to the formation of the American Colonization Society, by 
two distinct acts of her Legislature, separated by intervals of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 317 

time of sufficient length to imply full deliberation, expressed 
her approbation of the plan of colonization. 

" In considering the project of the American Colonization 
Society, our first inquiry should be into what it really is — then 
what it has done; and, finally, what it is capable of achieving. 
It is a voluntary association, formed for benevolent purposes, as 
must be freely acknowledged by all, if they should even prove 
the experiment to be impracticable. Its aim is to transport to 
the western shores of Africa, from the United States, all such 
free persons of colour as choose voluntarily to go. From its 
origin, and throughout the whole period of its existence, it has 
constantly disclaimed all intention whatever of interfering, in 
the smallest degree, with the rights of property, or the object of 
emancipation, gradual or immediate. It is not only without 
inclination, but it is without power, to make any such inter- 
ference. It is not even a chartered or incorporated company; 
and it has no other foundation than that of Bible societies, or 
any other Christian or charitable unincorporated companies in 
our country. It knows that the subject of emancipation belongs 
exclusively to the several States in which slavery is tolerated, 
and to individual proprietors of slaves in those States, under 
and according to their laws. It hopes, indeed, (and I trust 
there is nothing improper or offensive in the hope) that if it 
shall demonstrate the practicability of the successful removal to 
Africa, of free persons of colour, with their own consent, the 
cause of emancipation, either by States or by individuals, may 
be incidentally advanced. That hope is founded not only on 
the true interest of both races of our population, but upon the 
assertion, so repeatedly made, that the great obstacle to eman- 
cipation arose out of the difficulty of a proper disposal of manu- 
mitted slaves. Its pecuniary means, applicable to the design 
of the institution, are voluntarily contributed by benevolent 
States or individuals. The States of Virginia and Maryland, 
besides numerous pious or generous persons throughout the 
United States, have aided the society. 

" Such was the object of the American Colonization Society, 
organized at the city of Washington about thirteen years ago. 
Auxiliary institutions have been formed, in various parts of the 
Union, to aid and cooperate with the parent association, which 
have limited their exertions chiefly to the transmission to the 
treasurer of the society, of such funds as they could collect by 
27* 



318 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the voluntary contributions of benevolent and charitable indi- 
viduals. The auxihary society for the state of Kentucky, 
which I now address, was organized at the connnencement of 
the present year. 

" The American Colonization Society, so constituted, with 
such objects and such means, shortly after its formation, went 
into operation. It transacts its business at home, principally 
through a board of managers, which for the sake of convenience 
is fixed in the metropolis of the Union, and in Africa, through 
an agent abiding there, and acting under instructions received 
from the Board. The society has an annual session in the city 
of Washington, which is attended by its members, and by re- 
presentatives from such of the auxiliary institutions, as can 
conveniently depute them, at which sessions the Board of 
Managers makes a report of the general condition of the affairs 
of the society, during the previous year. 

"It would be an inexcusable trespass upon your time, to enter 
into a minute narrative of all the transactions of the society, 
from its commencement up to this time. Those who choose to 
examine them particularly, will find them recorded in the 
several reports of the Board of Managers, which from time to 
time have been published under its direction and authority. It 
will suffice at present to say, that one of the earliest acts of the 
society, was to despatch a competent agent to Africa, to explore 
its coasts and the countries bordering upon them, and to select 
a suitable spot for the establishment of the contemplated colo- 
ny. The society was eminently fortunate in the choice of its 
agent, as it has been generally in those whom it subsequently 
engaged in its service. A selection was finally made of a 
proper district of country, a purchase was effected of it from 
the native authorities, to which additions have been made, as 
tlie growing wants of the colony, actual or anticipated, re- 
quired. The country so acquired, upon terms as moderate as 
those on which the Government of the Union extinguishes the 
Indian title to soil within the United States, embraces large 
tracts of fertile land, capable of yielding all the rich and varied 
products of the tropics, possesses great commercial advantages, 
with an extent of sea-coast, from one hundred and fifty to two 
hundred miles, and enjoys a salubrious climate, well adapted 
to the negro constitution, and not so fatal to that of the whites, 
as many thickly peopled parts of the United States. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 319 

''Within that district of country, the society founded its colo- 
ny, under the denomination of Liberia, established towns, laid 
off plantations for the colonists, and erected military works for 
their defence. Annually, and as often as the pecuniary circum- 
stances of the society would admit, vessels from the ports of 
the United Slates, have been sent to Liberia, laden with emi- 
grants and with utensils, provisions and other objects, for their 
comfort. No difficulty has been experienced in obtaining as 
many colonists as the means of the society were competent to 
transport. They have been found, indeed, altogether inade- 
quate to accommodate all who were willing and anxious to go. 
The rate of expense of transportation and subsistence during 
the voyage, per head, was greater in the earlier voyages. It 
was subsequently reduced to about twenty dollars, and is 
believed to be susceptible of considerable further reduction. 
The number of colonists of both sexes, amounts now to about 
fifteen hundred. 

" The colony, in the first periods of its existence, had some 
collisions with the native tribes, which rose to such a height as 
to break out in open war, about four or five years ago. The 
war was conducted by the late gallant Mr. Ashmun, with 
singular good judgment and fortune, and was speedily brought 
to a successful close. It had the effect to impress upon the 
natives, a high idea of the skill, bravery, and power of the 
colonists, and having since become better acquainted with 
them, perceived the advantages of the colony, and gradually 
acquired a taste for its commerce and arts, no further misun- 
derstanding with them is apprehended, and the colony is 
daily acquiring a salutary influence over them. 

" The colony has a government adequate to the protection of 
the rights of persons and property, and to the preservation of 
order. The agent of the society combines the functions of gov- 
ernor, commander-in-chief, and highest judicial officer. The 
colonists share in the government, and elect various officers 
necessary to the administration. They appoint annually boards 
or committees of public works, of agriculture and of health, 
which are charged v/ith the superintendence of those important 
interests. It has established schools for the instruction of youth, 
and erected houses of public worship, in which divine service 
is regularly performed. And, it has a public library of twelve 



320 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

hundred volumes, and a printing press, which issues periodical- 
ly a gazette. 

" The colonists follow the mechanical arts, or agriculture, or 
commerce, as their inclinations or attainments prompt them. 
The land produces rice, cassada, coffee, potatoes, and all kinds 
of garden vegetables; and is capable of yielding sugar cane, 
indigo, in short, all the productions of the tropics. It is rich, 
easily tilled, and yields two crops of many articles in the circle 
of a year. They carry on an advantageous commerce with the 
natives by exchanges for ivory, gums, dye-stuffs, drugs, and 
other articles of African origin; and with the United States, 
which is annually increasing, and which amounted last year to 
sixty thousand dollars, in the produce of the colony, and in 
objects acquired by their traffic with the natives; receiving, in 
return, such supplies of American and other manufactures as 
are best adapted to their wants. 

" Such is the present condition of the colony, according to the 
latest intelligence. Here the society may pause, and with its 
pious and enlightened patrons and a generous public, look back 
with proud satisfaction, on the work, which, with the blessings 
of Providence, has so prospered. That, in its progress, it has 
met with obstacles and experienced discouragements, is most 
true. What great human undertaking was ever exempt from 
them? Its misfortunes in Africa have been similar in charac- 
ter, though it is confidently believed, less in degree, than those 
which generally attend the establishment of distant colonies, in 
foreign lands, amidst ignorant and untutored savages. A large 
portion of the deaths which have taken place may be attributed 
to rash exposure, and other imprudencies, under an untried sun, 
and subject to the action of a strange climate. But the colony 
can triumphantly exhibit its bills of mortality, in comparison 
with those of other colonies, in their early foundation, on this or 
any other continent. And experience justifies the hope, that 
the instances of mortality will constantly diminish with the 
augmented population, means, and strength of the colony. 

"But at home, in the parent country, here in the United 
States, notwithstanding the concurrence of so many powerful 
motives, recommending success to the exertions of the society, 
has it met with the most serious opposition, and bitter denunci- 
ation. At one time, it has been represented as a scheme to 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 321 

forge stronger and perpetual chains for the slaves among us. 
Then, that it had a covert aim to emancipate them all immedi- 
ately, and throw them, with all their imperfections, loose upon 
society. Those who judged less unfavourably of the purposes 
of the institution, pronounced it a bright vision, impracticable 
in its means and Utopian in its end. There is, unfortunately, 
in every community, a class not small, who, devoid themselves 
of the energy necessary to achieve any noble enterprise, and 
affecting to penetrate with deeper sagacity into the projects 
of others, pronounce their ultimate failure, with self-compla- 
cency, and challenge by anticipation, the merit of prophetic 
wisdom. Unmoved by these erroneous and unfriendly views, 
the society, trusting to the vindication which time and truth 
never fail to bring, has proceeded steadily and perseveringly in 
its great work. It has not been deceived. It has every where 
found some generous patrons and ardent friends. The Legis- 
latures of more than half the States of this enlightened Union, 
among which I am happy to be able to mention our own, have 
been pleased to express their approbation of the scheme. It 
has conciliated the cordial support of the pious clergy, of every 
denomination in the United States. It has been countenanced 
and aided by that fair sex, which is ever prompt to contribute 
its exertions in works of charity and benevolence, because it 
always acts from the generous impulses of pure and uncor- 
rupted hearts. And the society enrolls amongst its members 
and patrons, some of the most distinguished men of our coun- 
try, in its Legislative, Executive, and Judicial councils. We 
should be guilty of an unpardonable omission, if we did not, 
on this occasion, mingle our regrets with those of the whole 
people of these States, on account of a lamented death of one 
them, which has recently occurred. He was the President of 
the American Colonization Society from its origin, and through- 
out the entire period of its existence. Like the Father of his 
country, his illustrious relative, whose name he bore and whose 
affection he enjoyed, he was mild and gentle, firm and patri- 
otic. The Bench, of which he was an ornament, and the Bar, 
of which he was the delight, feeling his great loss, deeply share 
with us all in the grief which it produces. 

"The society presents to the American public no project of 
emancipation, no new chains for those who are unhappily in 
bondage, no scheme that is impracticable. It has no power, 



322 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and it seeks none. It employs no compulsion, and it desires to 
employ none. It addresses itself solely to the understanding ; 
its revenue flows from spontaneous grants, and all its means 
and agents and objects are voluntary. 

"The society believes it is within the compass of reasonable 
exertions, to transport annually to the colony of Liberia, a 
number of free persons of colour, with their own voluntary 
consent, equal to the annual increase of all that class in the 
United States. That annual increase, estimated according to 
the return of the last census, from the parent stock of 233,530, 
at a rate of augmentation of two and a half per cent, per an- 
num, may be stated to be six thousand. Estimating the whole 
expense of the voyage at twenty dollars per head, the total 
cost of their transportation will be one hundred and twenty 
thousand dollars. Is this simi of such an appalling amount, as 
to transcend the ability of the people of the United States? 
All admit the utility of the separation of the free people of 
colour from the residue of the population of the United States, 
if it be practicable. It is desirable for them, for the slaves of 
the United States, and for the white race. Here, invincible 
prejudices exclude them from the enjoyment of the society of 
the whites, and deny them all the advantages of freemen. The 
bar, the pulpit, and our legislative halls, are shut to them, by 
the irresistible force of public sentiment. No talents, however 
great, no piety, however pure and devoted, no patriotism, how- 
ever ardent, can secure their admission. They constantly hear 
the accents, and behold the triumphs, of a liberty which here 
they can never enjoy. In all the walks of society, on every 
road which lies before others to honour, and fame, and glory, a 
moral incubus pursues and arrests them, paralyzing all the en- 
ergies of the soul, and repressing every generous emotion of 
laudable ambition. Their condition is worse than that of the 
fabled Tantalus, who could never grasp the fruits and water 
which seemed within his reach. And when they die, 

' Memory o'er their tomb no trophies raises.' 

Why should such an unfortunate class desire to remain among 
us? Why should they not wish to go to the country of their 
forefathers, where, in the language of the eloquent Irish barris- 
ter, they would ' stand redeemed, regenerated, and disenthralled, 
by the mighty genius of universal emancipation.' 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 323 

"The vices of this class do not spring from any inherent de- 
pravity in their natural constitution, but from their unfortunate 
situation. Social intercourse is a want which we are prompted 
to gratify, by all the properties of our nature. And as they 
cannot obtain it in the better circles of society, nor always 
among themselves, they resort to slaves and to the most de- 
based and worthless of the whites. Corruption, and all the 
train of petty offences, are the consequences. Proprietors of 
slaves, in whose neighbourhood any free coloured family is sit- 
uated, know how infectious and pernicious this intercourse is. 
And the penal records of the tribunals, especially in the large 
cities, bear frightful testimony to the disproportionate number 
of crimes committed by the free people of colour. The evil of 
their increase in those cities is so enormous, as to call loudly 
for effective remedy. It has been so sensibly felt in a neigh- 
bouring city (Cincinnati) as to require, in the opinion of the 
public authorities, the enforcement of the vigorous measure 
of expulsion of all who could not give guaranties of their good 
behaviour. Their congregation in our great capitals has given 
rise to a new crime, perpetrated by unprincipled whites, and of 
which persons of that unhappy coloured race are the victims. 
A New York paper, of the 27th ultimo, but lately fell into my 
hands, in which I found the following articles: 'Beware of 
kidnappers! It is loell understood that there is at present in 
this city, a gang of kidnappers, busily engaged in their voca- 
tion of stealing coloured children for the southern market! It 
is believed that three or four have been stolen within as many 
days. A little negro boy came to this city from the country, 
three or four days ago. Some strange white persons were 
very friendly to him, and yesterday morning he was mightily 
pleased that they had given him some new clothes. And the 
persons pretending thus to befriend him, entirely secured his 
confidence. This day he cannot be found. Nor can he be 
traced since seen with one of his new friends yesterday. There 
are suspicions of a foul nature, connected with some who serve 
the police in subordinate capacities. It is hinted, that there 
may be those in some authority, not altogether ignorant of 
these diabolical practices. Let the public be on their guard.' 
To which the editor of the paper from which this quotation is 
made, appends the following remarks: <It is still fresh in the 
memories of all, that a cargo, or rather drove of negroes, was 



324 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

made up from this city and Philadelphia, about the time that 
the emancipation of all the negroes in this State took place, 
under our present constitution, and were taken through Vir- 
ginia, the Carol inas, and Tennessee, and disposed of in the 
state of Mississippi. Some of those who were taken from 
Philadelphia, were persons of intelligence, and after they had 
been driven through the country in chains, and disposed of by 
sale on the Mississippi, wrote back to their friends and were 
rescued from bondage. The persons who were guilty of this 
abominable transaction are known, and now reside in the state 
of North Carolina, and very probably may be engaged in sim- 
ilar enterprises at the present time; at least, there is reason to 
believe, that the system of kidnapping free persons of colour, 
from the Northern cities, has been carried on more extensively 
than the public are generally aware of.' 

" Whilst the concurrence is unanimous as to the propriety of 
the separation of the free coloured race, and their removal to 
some other country, if it be practicable, opinions are divided as 
to the most proper place of their destination. Some prefer 
Hayti, others to set apart a district beyond the Rocky Moun- 
tains, within the hmits of the territory of the United States, 
whilst much the larger number concur in the superior advan- 
tage of the plan of the American Colonization Society. The 
society opposes no other scheme. All other projects, if they 
are executed, are perfectly compatible with its own, and it 
wishes them full success. The more drains the better for this 
portion of our population. It would only deprecate the result 
of a distraction of the public attention amidst a variety of pro- 
posals, and a consequent failure to concentrate the energies of 
the community on any one of them. 

"Hayti is objectionable as the sole place of their removal, 
on various accounts. It is too limited in its extent. Although 
a large island, containing considerable quantities of unsettled 
land, it is incompetent as an asylum, during any great length 
of time, for the free persons of colour of the United States. It 
possesses no advantage, either in the salubrity of its cUmate, or 
the fertility of its soil over the western coast of Africa. The 
productions of both countries are nearly the same. The ex- 
pense of transportation to the one or to the other, is nearly the 
same. The emigrants would be in a state of dependence on the 
present inhabitants of the island, who have more intelligence and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 325 

have made greater advances in civilization, and moreover pos- 
sess all the power of the government. They speak a different 
language. It should not be the policy of the United States, when 
they consider the predominant power of the island, and its vi- 
cinity to the southern States, to add strength to it. And finally 
Hayti is destitute of some of those high moral considerations 
which belong to the foundation of a colony in Africa. 

"The country west of the Rocky Mountains, is also objec- 
tionable on several grounds. The expense of transportation 
of emigrants to it, whether by sea or inland, would be incom- 
parably greater than to Africa. They would be thrown in the 
midst of Indian tribes, to whom they are as incongruous as with 
the whites. Bloody and exterminating wars would be the cer- 
tain consequence; and the United States would be bound to 
incur great expense in defending them and preserving peace. 
Finally, that wave of the European race which rose on the 
borders of the Atlantic, swept over the Alleghany Mountains 
reached the Mississippi, and ascended the two great rivers 
which unite near St. Louis, will at no distant day pass the 
Rocky Mountains, and strike the Pacific, where it would again 
produce that very contact between discordant races which it is 
so desirable to avoid. 

"The society has demonstrated the practicability of planting 
a colony on the shores of Africa. Its exertions have been con- 
fined exclusively to the free coloured people of the United 
States, and to those of them who are willing to go. It has 
neither purpose nor power to extend them to the larger portion 
of that race held in bondage. Throughout the whole period 
of its existence this disclaimer has been made, and incontestable 
facts establish its truth and sincerity. It is now repeated, in its 
behalf, that the spirit of misrepresentation may have no pretext 
for abusing the public ear. But, although its scheme is so re- 
stricted, the society is aware, and rejoices that the principle of 
African colonization, which it has developed, admits of wider 
scope and more extensive application, by those states and pri- 
vate individuals, who may have the power and the inclination 
to apply it. 

"The slave population of the United States, according to the 
last returns of their census, as was shown more in detail, on 
another occasion, increased in a ratio of about forty-six thou- 
sand per annum. It may, perhaps, now be estimated at not 
28 



326 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

less than fifty thousand. It was said on that occasion: 'Let us 
suppose, for example, that the whole population at present of 
the United States, is twelve millions, of which ten may be esti- 
mated of the Anglo-Saxon, and two of the African race. If 
there could be annually transported from the United States, an 
amount of the African portion equal to the annual increase of 
the whole of that caste, whilst the European race should be left 
to multiply, we should find, at the termination of the period of 
duplication, whatever it may be, that the relative proportions 
would be as twenty to two. And if the process were con- 
tinued, during a second term of duplication, the population 
would be as forty to two — one which would eradicate every 
cause of alarm or solicitude from the breasts of the most timid. 
But the transportation of Africans, by creating, to the extent to 
which it might be carried, a vacuum in society, would tend to 
accelerate the duplication of the Europeon race, who, by all the 
laws of population, would fill up the void space.' To trans- 
port to Africa fifty thousand persons, would cost one million of 
dollars upon the estimate before stated. One million of dollars 
applied annually, during a period of sixty or seventy years, 
would, at the end of it, so completely drain the United States 
of all that portion of their inhabitants, as not to leave many 
more than those few who are objects of curiosity in the coun- 
tries of Europe. And is that sum, one-tenth part of what the 
United States now annually appropriate, as a sinking fund, 
without feeling it, and which will soon not be requisite to the 
extinction of the national debt, capable of producing any suf- 
fering or creating any impediment in the execution of other 
great social objects of the American communities? What a 
vast moral debt to Africa, to the world, and to our common 
God, should we not discharge by the creation of a new sinking 
fund of such a paltry sum? 

"This estimate does not comprehend any indemnity to the 
owners of slaves for their value, if they are to be purchased 
for the purpose of colonization. It is presumable that states 
or individuals, no longer restrained from the execution of 
their benevolent wish to contribute their endeavours to blot 
out this great stain upon the American name, by the con- 
sideration of the difficulty of a suitable provision for liberated 
slaves, when they perceive the plan of colonization in suc- 
cessful operation, will voluntarily manumit many for the pur- 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 327 

pose of their emigration. One of the latest numbers of the 
National Intelligencer, states the fact, that a recent offer has 
been made of two thousand slaves to the society, to be sent to 
Liberia, which the want of funds alone prevents its accepting. 
If the reasoning before employed, founded upon the decline in 
value of that description of property, be correct, many will be 
disposed, to emancipate from less disinterested motives. From 
some, or all of these sources, and from the free coloured popula- 
tion, an amount may be annually obtained for the purposes of 
colonization, equal to the number of fifty-six thousand which 
has been supposed. As the work of colonization advances, 
the ability of the European race to promote it will increase, 
both from the augmentation of its numbers and of its wealth, 
and the relative diminution of the negro race. And, in the 
course of the progress of its execution, it will not be found a 
burthensome appropriation of some of the revenue of the people 
of the United States, to purchase slaves,if colonists can not other- 
wise be obtained. Meanwhile it affords cause of the sincerest 
gratification, that in whatever extent the scheme of African 
colonization is executed, good is attained, without a solitary 
attendant evil. 

« I could not discuss the question of the extent of the respective 
powers of the various governments of this Union, without en- 
larging this address, already too much prolonged, in a most 
unreasonable degree. That the aggregate of their total powers 
is fully adequate to the execution of the plan of colonization, 
in its greatest extent, is incontestable. How those powers 
have, in fact, been divided and distributed between the General 
and State governments, is a question for themselves to decide 
after careful investigation and full deliberation. We may 
safely assume that there are some things which each system 
is competent to perform, towards the accomplishment of the 
great work. The General Government can treat with foreign 
powers for the security of the colony, and with the Emperor 
of Morocco, or other African Princes or States, for the acqui- 
sition of territory. It may provide in the colony an asylum for 
natives of Africa introduced into the United States, in contra- 
vention to their laws, and for their support and protection, as 
it has done. And it may employ portions of our Navy, whilst 
engaged in practising to acquire the needful discipline and skill, 
or in proceeding to their appointed cruising stations, to trans- 



328 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

port emigrants from the United States to the colony. Can a 
nobler service, in time of peace, be performed by the National 
flag than that of transporting under its stars and stripes to the 
land of their ancestors, the sons of injured Africa, there to 
enjoy the blessings of our pure religion and a real liberty ? It 
can employ the colony as the best and most efficacious instru- 
ment of suppressing the infamous slave trade. 

"Any of the States may apply, in their proper spheres, the 
powers which they possess and the means at their command. 
They may remove restraints upon emancipation, imposed from 
a painful conviction that slavery, with all its undisputed ills, 
was better than manumission without removal. Such of them 
as can, safely and justly, may abolish slavery and follow the 
example of Pennsylvania, New York, and other Stales. 'Any 
of them can contribute some pecuniary aid to the object. And 
if an enlargement of the constitutional powers of the General 
Government be necessary and expedient, they are competent to 
grant it. 

"I have thus, gentlemen, presented a faint and imperfect 
sketch of what was contemplated by the American Coloniza- 
tion Society, to which you form an auxiliary, of what it has 
done, and of what the principle of African Colonization, which 
it has successfully illustrated, is susceptible, with due encou- 
ragement, and adequate means, in the hands of competent 
authority. We ought not to be disheartened by the little which 
has been accomplished, in the brief space of thirteen years 
during which it has existed, or the magnitude and difficulties of 
the splendid undertaking which lies before us. In the execu- 
tion of those vast schemes which affect the condition and happi- 
ness of large portions of the habitable globe, time is necessary, 
which may appear to us mortals of long duration, but which in 
the eyes of Providence, or in comparison with the periods of 
national existence, is short and fleeting. How long was it 
after Romulus and Remus laid the scanty foundations of their 
little state in the contracted hmits of the peninsula of Italy, 
before Imperial Rome burst forth, in all her astonishing splen- 
dour, the acknowledged mistress of the world! Ages passed 
away before Carthage and other colonies, in ancient times, 
shone out in all their commercial and military glory. Several 
centuries have now elapsed since our forefathers first began, 
in the morasses of James river and on the Rock of Plymouth, the 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 329 

work of founding this Republic, yet in its infancy. Eighteen 
hundred years have rolled over since the Son of God, our blessed 
Redeemer, offered himself, on Mount Calvary, a voluntary 
sacrifice for the salvation of our species ; and more than half 
of mankind continue to deny his divine mission and the truth 
of his sacred word. 

"We may boldly challenge the annals of human nature for 
the record of any human plan, for the melioration of the con- 
dition or advancement of the happiness of our race, which 
promised more unmixed good, or more comprehensive benefi- 
cence, than that of African colonization, if carried into full 
execution. Its benevolent purpose is not limited by the con- 
fines of one continent, nor to the prosperity of a solitary race, 
but embraces two of the largest quarters of the earth, and the 
peace and happiness of both of the descriptions of their present 
inhabitants, with the countless millions of their posterity who 
are to succeed. It appeals for aid and support to the friends of 
liberty here and every where. The colonists, reared in the bosom 
of this republic, with a perfect knowledge of all the blessings 
which freedom imparts, although they have not always been 
able themselves to share them, will carry a recollection of it to 
Africa, plant it there, and spread it over her boundless territory. 
And may we not indulge the hope, that in a period of time not 
surpassing in duration that of our own colonial and national 
existence, we shall behold a confederation of republican States, 
on the western shores of Africa, like our own, with their Con- 
gress and annual Legislatures thundering forth in behalf of the 
rights of man, and making tyrants tremble on iheir thrones? 
It appeals for aid and support to the friends of civilization 
throughout the world. Africa, although a portion of it was 
among the first to emerge from barbarism, is now greatly in 
the rear of all the continents, in knowledge, and in the arts and 
sciences. America owes to the old world a debt of gratitude 
for the possession of them. Can she discharge it in any more 
suitable manner, than that of transplanting them on a part of 
its own soil, by means of its own sons, whose ancestors were 
torn by fraud and violence from their native home, and thrown 
here into bondage? It powerfully appeals for support to pa- 
triotism and humanity. If we were to invoke the greatest 
blessing on earth, which Heaven, in its mercy, could now be- 
stow on this nation, it would be the separation of the two most 
28* 



330 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

numerous races of its population, and their comfortable estab- 
lishment ill distinct and distant countries. To say nothing of 
the greatest difficulty in the formation of our present happy 
Constitution, which arose out of this mixed condition of our 
people, nothing of the distracting Missouri question, which was 
so threatening; nothing of others, springing from the same 
fruhful source, which yet agitate us, who can contemplate the 
future without the most awful apprehensions? Who, if this 
promiscuous residence of whites and blacks, of freemen and 
slaves, is for ever to continue, can imagine the servile wars, 
the carnage and the crimes, which will be its probable conse- 
quences, without shuddering with horror? It finally appeals 
emphatically for aid and support to the reverend clergy, and 
sincere professors of our holy religion. If the project did not 
look beyond the happiness of the two races now in America, it 
would be entitled to their warmest encouragement. If it were 
confined to the removal only of the free coloured population, it 
would deserve all their patronage. Within those restrictions, 
how greatly would it not contribute to promote the cause of 
virtue and morality, and consequently religion ! But it presents 
a much more extensive field — a field only limited by the con- 
fines of one of the largest quarters of the habitable globe — for 
religious and benevolent exertion. ' Throughout the entire ex- 
istence of Christianity, it has been a favourite object of its ar- 
dent disciples and pious professors, to diff'use its blessings by 
converting the heathen. This duty is enjoined by its own sa- 
cred precepts, and prompted by considerations of humanity. 
All Christendom is more or less employed on this object, at this 
moment, in some part or other of the earth. But it must, in 
candour, be owned, that hitherto, missionary eff'orts have not 
had a success corresponding, in extent, with the piety and be- 
nevolence of their aim, or with the amount of the means which 
have been applied. Some new and more efficacious mode of 
accomplishing the beneficent purpose must be devised, which 
by concentrating energies and endeavours, and avoiding loss in 
their diffuse and uncombined application, shall ensure the at- 
tainment of more cheering results. The American Colonization 
Society presents itself to the religious world, as uniting those 
great advantages. Almost all Africa is in a state of the deepest 
ignorance and barbarism, and addicted to idolatry and super- 
stition. It is destitute of the blessings both of Christianity and 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 331 

civilization. The society is an instrument, which, under the 
guidance of Providence, with pubhc assistance, is competent to 
spread the lights of both, throughout its vast dominions. And 
the means are as simple as the end is grand and magnificent. 
They are to deviate from the practice of previous missionary 
institutions, and employ as agents some of the very brethren of 
the heathen sought to be converted, and brought within the pale 
of civilization. The society proposes to send, not one or two 
pious members of Christianity into a foreign land, among 
a different, and perhaps a suspicious race, of another com- 
plexion, but to transport annually, for an indefinite number of 
years, in one view of its scheme, six thousand, in another, fifty- 
six thousand missionaries, of the descendants of Africa itself, 
with the same interests, sympathies, and constitutions of the 
natives, to communicate the benefits of our religion and of the 
arts. And this colony of missionaries is to operate, not alone 
by preaching the doctrines of truth and of revelation, which, 
however delightful to the ears of the faithful and intelligent, 
are not always comprehended by untutored savages, but also 
by works of ocular demonstration. It will open forests, build 
towns, erect temples of public worship, and practically exhibit 
to the native sons of Africa, the beautiful moral spectacle, and 
the superior advantages, of our religious and social systems. 
In this unexaggerated view of the subject, the colony, compared 
with other missionary plans, presents the force and grandeur of 
a noble steamer majestically ascending, and with ease subdu- 
ing, the current of the Mississippi, in comparison with the 
feeble and tottering canoe, moving slowly among the reeds 
that fringe its shores. It holds up the image of the resistless 
power of the Mississippi itself, rushing from the summits of the 
Rocky Mountains, and marking its deep and broad and rapid, 
course through the heart of this continent, thousands of miles, 
to the Gulf of Mexico, in comparison with that of an obscure 
rivulet, winding its undiscernible way through dark and dense 
forests or luxuriant prairies, in which it is quickly and for ever 
lost. 

" Gentlemen of the Colonization Society of Kentucky ! not 
one word need be added, in conclusion, to animate your perse- 
verance, or to stimulate your labours, in the humane cause 
which you have deliberately espoused. We have reason to 
believe that we have been hitherto favoured, and shall continue 



3 32 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to be blessed, with the smiles of Providence. Confiding in his 
approving judgment, and conscious of the benevolence and 
purity of our intentions, we may fearlessly advance in our 
great work. And, when we shall, as soon we must, be trans- 
lated from this into another form of existence, is the hope pre- 
sumptuous that we shall there behold the common Father of 
whites and of blacks, the great Ruler of the Universe, cast his 
all-seeing eye upon civilized and regenerated Africa, its culti- 
vated fields, its coast studded with numerous cities, adorned 
with towering temples, dedicated to the pure religion of his 
redeeming Son, its far-famed Niger, and other great rivers, 
lined with flourishing villages, and navigated with that won- 
derful power, which American genius first successfully applied; 
and that after dwelling with satisfaction upon the glorious 
spectacle, he will deign to look with approbation upon us, his 
humble instruments, who have contributed to produce it?" 

The friends of colonization in the city of Philadelphia, had 
already manifested their zeal and liberality, by chartering the 
brig Liberia, at their own expense ; and at a meeting held at 
the Franklin Institute, a subscription was taken up, to the 
amount of two thousand two hundred and ninety-six dollars, of 
which sum a single individual gave one thousand dollars. 

The Board, at Washington, being very desirous to send out 
those enfranchised slaves, who had come on from Georgia, with 
some others; but not having the funds necessary, applied to the 
Pennsylvania Society to assume the charge of sending them 
out, as they had done the former emigrants. To this proposal 
they readily agreed, relying on the liberality of their fellow citi- 
zens, to enable them to accomplish the undertaking. 

The opposition to the American Colonization Society, now 
became, every day, more inveterate; and the prejudices infused 
into the minds of most of the free people of colour, were deep 
and extensive. The same opposition, however, did not mani- 
fest itself towards colonization in Canada, or at Hayti. The 
laws of Ohio having rendered the situation of a large part of 
the coloured population of that State uneasy, by greatly curtail- 
ing their privileges, after inquiry, a number of them resolved to 
emigrate to Upper Canada. This region was too far north for 
the comfort of the African race. They went, however, by the 
permission of the government of the upper colony, and settled 
a town, which they named Wilberforce, in honour of that dis- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 333 

tinguised and eloquent friend of the African race. But political 
difficulties met these unhappy people here as well as in Ohio : 
for when the Assembly of Upper Canada met, they passed a 
string of resolutions, disapproving of the whole plan of intro- 
ducing such settlers into the colony; and it was agreed to send 
an humble address to his Majesty's government at home, com- 
plaining of this thing. 

About this time, the zeal of the abolitionists had become ex- 
ceedingly warm, and great excitement was produced, both at 
the north and the south, by the publication of inflammatory 
pamphlets, containing highly coloured descriptions of the cruel- 
ty exercised towards the slaves in the southern States; and cari- 
catures, in the form of prints were prepared, calculated to make 
a strong impression on the imagination of the people. A pam- 
phlet was printed in Boston, written by one Mr. Walker, which 
actually aimed to excite the slaves to insurrection, and did not 
hesitate to exhort them to take vengeance on their owners, by 
imbruing their hands in their blood. Copies of these pamphlets 
were sent by mail and otherwise, into the southern country, 
where they produced both alarm and indignation. Severe laws 
were soon passed against the circulation of such books and 
prints; and persons found in possession of these incendiary pub- 
lications were treated very harshly, and without much regard 
to the regular forms of law. 

The Hon. C. F. Mercer brought in a report, on the memorial 
addressed to Congress by the Managers of the Colonization 
Society, in which a survey is taken of the commencement and 
progress of this cause, and weighty considerations brought to 
view, to induce Congress, in every suitable way, to aid the 
cause of African colonization. But this report was made so 
late in the session, that it was feared that Congress would not 
act on the subject. 

About this time an institution was formed in the city of 
Washington, which seemed to promise much benefit to the 
colonization scheme. It was an " African Education Society." 
A school for the improvement in learning of the youth of the 
coloured population, had existed for some years at Parsippany, 
New Jersey, under the special patronage of the Synods of New 
York and New Jersey. The Episcopal church had also formed 
"The African Mission School Society," under the direction of the 
Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society of that church, which 



334 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

was considered as very auspicious to the hopes of African im- 
provement. But, as neither of these societies and schools had 
attracted much of the pubhc attention, it was deemed expedient 
to set on foot another institution to prepare young men of colour 
for usefulness in Africa. This had never been made the distinct 
object of the other societies. Educated young men of colour 
were also greatly needed in the colony; this, therefore, seemed 
to be an enterprise of much promise, and to which no serious ob- 
stacle was anticipated. It was declared to be the exclusive ob- 
ject of the society now formed, "to afford to persons of colour, 
destined to Africa, such an education in letters, agriculture, and 
the mechanic arts, as may best qualify them for usefulness and 
influence in Africa." The Board of this society published a very 
able address to the public, which may be seen in the sixth 
volume of the African Repository. 

The Board received the agreeable intelligence, by the return 
of the Liberia, of the safe arrival of the emigrants, together 
with Dr. Anderson and the Swiss missionaries, in good health. 
These emigrants Dr. Mechlin located at Caldwell, and wrote to 
the Board that they appeared to be perfectly well satisfied with 
their situation and prospects. He mentioned, also, the arrival 
of the British brig Heroine, from Barbadoes, having on board 
ninety-one recaptured Africans, under the charge of A. H. 
Mechlin, agent for their transportation, and Dr. Smith, of the 
United States Navy. It was nearly five months from the time 
of their sailing from the United States, before they arrived at 
Monrovia. After being at sea eighty-nine days, through the 
ignorance of the captain, they were at last obliged to put into 
Carlisle Bay, Barbadoes, where, after a survey of the vessel, 
named Washington's Barge, she was found unfit to prose- 
cute the voyage, and they were obliged to charter another. 
The number of recaptured Africans, when they left Florida, 
was one hundred, but nine died on the passage, leaving but 
ninety-one when she arrived. 

The growing influence of the colony on the natives in the 
vicinity, was remarkably manifested in the following case re- 
ported to the Board by Dr. Mechlin : " King Peter, of Bushrod 
Island, who died about the eighth of September last, had a 
head-man, who established himself at the St. Paul's, assuming 
the title of King Long Peter. He has recently removed to the 
town of the deceased, and placed himself under the laws and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 335 

protection of the colony. A deputation was sent down to in- 
form me of the fact, and receive my orders respecting their 
future disposal. They were informed, that hereafter, they 
would be subject to our laws, and that King Long Peter should 
lay aside the title of king, and receive that of head-man from 
me; that they must now consider themselves as Americans, 
and entirely independent of the neighbouring tribes, who should 
not molest them; and all their grievances must be stated 
through their head-man to me, for my decision. When this 
determination was known to them, it was received with shouts 
of joy, and they could scarcely be restrained from coming down 
in a body, and visiting us, although it was then late in the 
afternoon. The advantages to be derived from this arrange- 
ment, they are well aware of. They are at once freed from all 
the oppressive laws and customs of the surrounding native tribes, 
and know that they cannot be sold into slavery, as they were 
before at any moment liable to, on account of some frivolous 
dispute or palaver, got up for the purpose by the head-men, 
whenever they want a supply of money. They will also be 
secured from the hostile incursions of other tribes ; for such is 
the terror we have inspired, that they will not molest any be- 
longing to the colony. Most of the petty kings in our vicinity 
would gladly come into the same arrangement, were it advisa- 
ble at present to receive them; but we could not afford them 
the same protection, on account of their remote situation." 

The account of a visit to Caldwell, by the agent, at this time, 
will furnish the reader with some idea of that delightful village. 
"A short time since, I paid a visit to Caldwell, for the purpose 
of inspecting the state of the settlement, and must confess the 
result was highly gratifying. The greatest neatness and regu- 
larity prevail throughout, as you are already aware. It is 
beautifully situated, at the junction of the St. Paul's and Stock- 
ton rivers, and consists of one street, about a mile and a half 
long, kept very clean, and planted on either side with rows of 
plantains and bananas. Between this and the water, there is 
an open space, not only very ornamental, but contributing 
much to the health of the place." 

Considerable labour was laid out by the colonists, very judi- 
ciously, in making roads to particular points in the interior. 
By this means, trade with the natives at a distance would be 
greatly promoted. Dr. Mechlin, in speaking of this intercourse. 



336 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

remarks: "I find that our colony is becoming more known in 
the interior, from the increased number of the Mandingoes 
who resort to us. These people form the connecting link, or 
medium of communication, between the interior tribes and 
those inhabiting the sea coast. They are almost exclusively 
devoted to trade, and evince great shrewdness in all their mer- 
cantile transactions; and it is almost impossible to get the ad- 
vantage of them in making a bargain. When they arrive in 
town, they call on a merchant, inquire the price of his goods, 
perhaps display some gold, to make him eager to trade, and so 
manage it, as to induce him to believe they intend to do busi- 
ness solely with him; but before they come to any conclusion, 
will visit every dealer in town, and then, perhaps, return to the 
first, and before they have done, get his goods at least ten per 
cent, cheaper than they could be obtained elsewhere ; and 
probably an equal amount on credit; so that, when he comes 
to reflect a little, he finds himself a loser instead of a gainer by 
the transaction." — " They are all Mahomedans, and are very 
zealous in gaining proselytes, and have succeeded to a great 
extent, in propagating their faith among the natives on the 
windward coast, from Cape Mount to the rivers Pongas and 
Nunez. Go where they will, their persons are respected and their 
influence very great. This arises from their being almost the 
only people that make amulets or fetiches for the more igno- 
rant, which is of itself of considerable profit, as those fetiches 
are held in great estimation, from the fact of the maker's being 
able to write Arabic, or, as the natives say, 'make book.' 
They excel most of the natives in various manufactures, par- 
ticularly in the preparation of leather, some of which would do 
credit to any country. They are also excellent workers in iron 
and other metals." 

It was during this year, (1S30), that a printing press was set 
up in Monrovia. IVIr. Rnsswurm, who had received a liberal 
education, as we before stated, and had been coneerned in edit- 
ing a paper in New York city, having arrived in Liberia, was 
immediately engaged to undertake to publish "The Liberia 
Herald," which has been continued ever since, and is a truly 
respectable paper, both as it relates to its contents, and the 
typographical execution. 

The Montgomery, chartered by the liberality of the friends 
of African colonization in Philadelphia, sailed from Hampton 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 337 

Roads, in April, 1830. Slie took out the thirty slaves manumit- 
ted by Joel Early, of Georgia; six by F. S. Anderson, of Hagers- 
town, Maryland; six by Dr. Tilden, of Newtown, Virginia; 
three by Mr. Prettow, of Southampton, Virginia; five by G. 
W. Holcomb, of Lynchburg, Virginia, and several others; in all 
making sixty-four emancipated persons: the rest were free be- 
fore. Twelve of the emigrants were from near Lynchburg, and 
three from Norfolk, Virginia. This company was represented 
as being generally sober and industrious farmers and labovu'- 
ers, many of them pious, and among them two respectable 
preachers, one of the Methodist and the other of the Baptist 
church. 

The good people of Philadelphia not only assumed the whole 
expense of transporting these people to Africa, but raised a 
considerable fund to be applied to the removal of any coloured 
emigrants, whom it might be judged expedient to send to Li- 
beria. 

Dr. Mechlin, the colonial agent, returned in the month of 
May, and found his health nearly restored by the voyage. His 
account of the condition and prospects of the colony were truly 
interesting and animating. 

The interests of the Colonization Society were essentially 
benefitted by the agency of the Rev. H. B. Bascom, of the 
Methodist Episcopal church, in the western States. In his re- 
port to the Board, he says, " I have formed nineteen auxiliary 
societies, and have probably addressed above seventy thousand 
persons," Mr. Bascom's efficiency, as an agent, was also evinced 
by his success in collecting funds for the society. 

The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, this 
year, passed a resolution, with only four dissenting voices, re- 
commending to all the ministers to take up collections for the 
Colonization Society on or about the fourth of July. 

The colonization cause met with a serious loss, this year, in 
the premature death of William Henry Fitzhugh, of Ravens- ^ 
worth, Virginia. This young gentleman, born in 1792, and 
educated at Nassau Hall, New Jersey, became one of the most 
zealous, as he was one of the most enlightened advocates of 
African colonization. His character is thus drawn by a writer 
in the African Repository. " Mr. Fitzhugh was no ordinary 
man. His highly gifted, and well balanced mind, improved 
and polished by the best education, by self-discipline, and by 
39 



338 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

constant intercourse with cultivated and refined society, con- 
trolled by sentiments, just, honourable, magnanimous, rendered 
him a model of the virtues most admired in public and private 
life. 

" The talents, the fortune, and the character of Mr. Fitzhugh 
eminently prepared him for public usefulness, and as a member 
of the House of Delegates, of the Senate, and recently of the 
convention of his native State, he fulfilled the highest expecta- 
tions of his friends, and stood acknowledged by all, an able, 
honourable, and eloquent statesman. 

" He was a philanthropist, and felt that human beings, what- 
ever might be their country, circumstances, or complexion, 
were related to him by the ties of a common nature, and must 
not be excluded from his regards. In the decease of Mr, Fitz- 
hugh the Colonization Society mourns the loss of one who has 
left behind him enduring evidence of his early, steadfast, and 
efficient efforts in furthering its great design. . . . The mind of 
Mr. Fitzhugh was too candid, comprehensive, and benevolent, 
to remain insensible of those considerations, political, moral, 
and religious, which invest the objects of our institution with 
such immediate interest, and importance. From its very origin 
his countenance and support were given to the society, and in 
1820 he was elected a vice-president. He was not to be dis- 
couraged by the calamitous events of its early history; nor yet 
by the violent and opposing currents of public opinion." 

About the end of May, this year, there was an opportunity 
of examining Mr. Francis Devany, the high-sheriff of the 
colony of Liberia, who was on a visit to this country. The 
committee of Congress, to whom the memorial of the American 
Colonization Society had been referred, of which Mr. Mercer 
was chairman, met in the capitol,on the 20th of May. Several 
senators, and members of the House of Representatives attend- 
ed, to hear the replies of Mr. Devany, to the questions which 
might be asked. The examination was also continued in the 
evening, when a much larger number of members attended; 
and the questions and answers were carefully taken down by 
Mr. Stansbury, the reporter to the House. 

Before giving a summary of the information received from 
this person, it may be well to mention, that he was born in 
South Carolina, a slave, the property of Langdon Cheves, Esq., 
formerly Speaker of the House of Representatives : that after 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 339 

obtaining his freedom, he practised the trade of a sailmaker, in 
the employment of Mr. Forten, a respectable and wealthy man 
of colour in the city of Philadelphia: that more than seven 
years before this time, he emigrated to Liberia, where having 
acquired a little money, he engaged in trade, in which he was 
so successful, that in six years he amassed property valued at 
fifteen or twenty thousand dollars. The brig Liberia, in which 
he came to the United States, brought in a cargo worth twenty 
thousand dollars. 

Mr.Devany, in answer to the questions put to him by Messrs. 
Mercer, Spencer, and others, made the following statements. 
" That the colony experienced great inconvenience for the want 
of a national flag: several vessels are owned by the colonists — 
he himself owns one which cost one thousand dollars; and an- 
other person paid six thousand dollars for a vessel; but these 
and many other vessels are laid up and going to decay, for want 
of a flag. The persons of whom they are afraid, are the pirates. 
The English and French vessels have treated them kindly. 
The pirates consist mostly of Spaniards, some of whom sail in 
American vessels. The colony has six volunteer companies, 
in uniform, besides militia, amounting in all to above five 
hundred men. The colony has not been attacked since Mr. 
Devany lived there; owing to the strength of their defences. 
They have a stone fort called Stockton, which was repaired by 
the late Dr. Randall, and is about two-thirds finished. It is of 
stone and ten feet high, but the platforms of the guns are not 
yet finished. The stone used in this fort, and which is com- 
monly used in building houses, is a blue granite, very hard and 
solid. They have another species of stone, much softer, and 
impregnated with iron. The latter is employed in Sierra Leone, 
almost exclusively; but in Monrovia it is used for window-sills 
and chimney-pieces. Lime in abundance, they get from the 
shells on the Junk river. It is of the best quality, and makes 
good, hard, finished walls. Wood being plenty, they have all 
the building materials they can desire, with the exception of 
iron. The harbour is counted the best on the coast, and is sel- 
dom without vessels. There are nine feet water on the bar, 
and from twelve to sixteen inside of it. 

"The prevailing morals of the colony are good. Witnessed 
but one fight since his residence in Liberia, and that was a 
political quarrel between one of the colonists and a citizen of 



340 HISTORY OF AFRICAX COLONIZATION. 

Sierra Leone, who spoke disparagingly of the American colony. 
No instance of a capital crime had yet occurred. Where the 
laws of the colony are silent, they resort to those of the United 
States. The courts, when sitting, are well attended. Witness- 
es are brought up by a process of subpoena, as in the United 
States. Two persons only are addicted to intemperance, but 
it is not habitual. There are three churches, frame buildings, 
one of which has a steeple. One belongs to the Methodists, 
one to the Baptists, and one, not yet finished, to the Presby- 
terians. Divine service is attended three times on the Sabbath, 
and also on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The Sunday 
schools are attended by many of the native children. All who 
can be decently clad are in the habit of attending. The natives 
in the colony are adopting our modes of dress. Formerly their 
females were very partially covered, but now, when in their 
native costume, they will not come publicly into the town. No 
dancing is practised; the religious part of the community have 
prevailed in discouraging it. Several of the neighbouring tribes 
have voluntarily put themselves under the protection of the 
colony. 

" A very active trade is carried on at Monrovia. A colonist 
by the name of Waring, will have sold goods this year to the 
amount of seventy thousand dollars. Mr. Devany's own sales 
are from twenty to twenty-five thousand dollars. Coffee is 
very abundant in the higher and more rocky grounds ; on sandy 
soil, it is not so plenty. The produce of the plants is very vari- 
ous ; from some trees, enough may be gathered to fill a pocket 
handkerchief of the largest size, while others will not yield 
more than half a pound. It resembles the coffee of Java, 
being white, and of large grain. The colony, as yet, had not 
made coffee an article of export; they gather, however, enough 
for their own consumption. They export dye-woods, hides, 
ivory, palm-oil, and rice. Provisions are plenty, and in order 
to keep the native trade, they are sometimes taken in greater 
quantity than they are needed. The traders refuse none that 
are brought to them. The colonists in general, are well satisfied 
wuh their situation. The exceptions are very few, and consist 
of some old women, and persons of weak capacity, such as the 
colonists would be glad to get rid of. One or two, however, 
have been so dissatisfied as to remove : one in particular, came 
over in the same vessel with himself. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 341 

" The health of the colony is, in general, good. From ten 
days to six weeks after arrival, strangers are liable to attacks of 
ague and fever, but after that time they are generally healthy. 

Mr. Devany said "that he had travelled up the St. Paul's 
river till he came to a series of falls, extending ten or twelve 
miles, in which space the water often falls, perpendicularly, 
twenty, thirty, or even fifty feet. About sixty or eighty miles 
up this river, is the country of King Boatswain. The inter- 
mediate country is finely wooded, abounding with valuable 
ship-timber. They have a species of oak which is evergreen, 
'and grows to the size of five or six feet in diameter at the 
stump, rising from sixty to a hundred feet, and even to a 
hundred and ten feet, without a limb. They have, besides, a 
species of poplar, of a reddish colour, which works well, and 
is employed by joiners for the inside work of houses. 

"The disease known at Cape Coast, as the worm, is not 
known at Monrovia. They have some tiniber, which after 
lying on the ground ten years, never has a worm. They have 
a species of teak similar to that in Brazil : also a brimstone 
wood, much resembling mahogany, but of a lighter colour. 
They have the great ant of Africa ; which, however, instead 
of an annoyance, proves serviceable in clearing their houses 
from vermin of every description. A band of these insects will 
attack and master a rat, and having put him to death, will di- 
vide his body into small pieces, and marshalling themselves in 
array, will carry every particle of the spoil out of the house, to 
their nests, 

"They paid one of their teachers a salary of four hundred 
and fifty dollars; but he did not consider this sufficient, and 
engaged in the business of a surveyor. The newspaper pub- 
lished in Monrovia, has between two and three hundred sub- 
scribers. 

"Mr. Devany had visited Sierra Leone, but found it by no 
means in so prosperous a condition, as their own colony. He 
attributed the difference to the residence of European traders 
among them, who had engrossed the commerce to themselves, 
and who treated the coloured population with as little respect 
as they would receive in Carolina or Georgia. 

"The Liberia agents treat the coloured people well; maldng 
no difference whatever on account of colour. The people have 
great^ respect for the agents, but feel themselves to be at the 
29^ 



342 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

head of their own society. Much activity and emulation pre- 
vail: each settler endeavours to push his own fortune by all 
lawful and honourable means. If one builds himself a good 
house this season, his neighbour will try to have as good a one 
the next. But this competition is attended with no ill will. 

" To every colonist who arrives, a lot is assigned of a quarter 
of an acre, and fifteen acres in the neighbourhood; but to such 
as wish to become farmers, fifty acres of land are granted. The 
soil is cultivated with ease. 

"The climate is mild and uniform ; the thermometer never 
sinking below 68°, nor rising above 88°; perhaps once it has 
risen above 90°. There is a constant sea-breeze, and some- 
times the weather is quite cool ; never so cold, hovever, as to 
produce frost. There are no chimneys except to the kitchens ; 
but in cold weather, it is customary to use small furnaces with 
charcoal. Many of the houses are built of stone, others of 
logs, weather-boarded. Some of them are painted white, with 
green Venetian blinds. 

"They have gardens abounding with vegetables, and various 
native fruits. The pine-apple is common, and they have a 
species of cherry growing in large clusters like grapes. The 
tamarind is common, and the palm-tree abounds, and is of great 
value; palm-oil is worth five or six cents a pound. They buy 
it from the natives for eight or ten cents a gallon. 

"The slave trade is not suffered to exist whhin the colony; 
nor is it to be found within a space of forty-five or fifty miles, 
on each side of Cape Mesurado. Any person found engaged 
in this traffic, within the colony, is imprisoned. The crime is 
piracy by their law, and none of the colonists have been 
engaged in it." 

This account of the state of the colony, from a man who had 
resided there, for many years, is every way worthy of credit; 
and, indeed, carries internal evidence of its truth, to every can- 
did mind. 

We have also, a very satisfactory letter on the subject of Libe- 
ria, from Captain W. E. Sherman, a judicious and pious man, 
who took out the emigrants, who sailed in the Liberia. This 
letter is addressed to Mr. Edward Hallowell, dated May 10, 
1830. Some extracts will be gratifying to those who wish to 
contemplate the progress of the colony, from year to year. 

"Monrovia, at present, consists of about ninety dwelling 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 343 

houses and stores, two houses for public worship, and a coun- 
cil-house. Many of the dwellings are handsome and conve- 
nient, and all of them comfortable. The plot of the town is 
cleared more than a mile square, elevated about seventy feet 
above the level of the sea, and it contains seven hundred inhabi- 
tants. The streets are generally one hundred feet wide, and 
like those of our good city, (Philadelphia,) intersect each other 
at right angles. 

"The Agent of the Colonization Society is the chief magis- 
trate, and the physician of the colony, his assistant. 

"No white people are allowed to reside in the colony for the 
purposes of trade, or of pursuing any mechanical business; 
such being intended for the exclusive benefit of the coloured 
people. The colonial secretary, collector of customs, surveyor, 
and constables, are appointed by the agent — the vice-agent, 
sheriff, treasurers, and all other civil offices, are filled by the 
coloured people. 

"The court holds its sessions on the first Monday in every 
month; juries are empannelled as with us, and its jurisdiction 
extends over the whole colony. 

"The township of Caldwell is about seven miles from Mon- 
rovia, on St. Paul's river, and contains a population of five 
hundred and sixty agriculturists. The soil is exceedingly 
fertile, the situation pleasant, and the people satisfied and 
happy. 

"Millsburg is situated twenty-five miles from Monrovia, 
on the St. Paul's at the head of tide-water, where there are 
never failing streams, sufficient for one hundred mills; and 
there is timber enough, in their immediate neighbourhood, for 
their employment, if used for the purpose of sawing, for half 
a century. The town contains two hundred inhabitants. 

"Bushrod Island separates Mesurado from St. Paul's river, 
and is seven miles in length, three at its extreme breadth, about 
five miles from Monrovia, and is very fertile. On this island 
are settled thirty families, from the Carolinas. All the above 
settlers, amounting to at least fifteen hundred, are emigrants 
from the United States. 

"On the left bank of Stockton creek, and near Bushrod 
Island, the recaptured Africans are located ; two hundred and 
fifty of whom were sent out by the Government of the United 
States, and one hundred and fifty, taken by the colonists, from 



344 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the Spanish factories; the agents of which having bought some 
of our kidnapped Africans, and refusing to give them up, the 
colonists, not only took their own people, but the slaves they 
had collected. These four hundred, who are useful agricultu- 
rists, are happily situated, and very contented. The settle- 
ments, of which I have spoken, contain an aggregate of two 
thousand souls, and are in a flourishing condition. * * * 

"The means the colony has for defence, at present, consists 
of twenty pieces of ordnance, and muskets for one thousand 
men, which may be increased from private stores if wanted. 

"There is much hospitality in Monrovia, and among the in- 
habitants a greater proportion of moral and religious characters, 
than in your city. 

" It has been objected, that the climate is very unhealthy — 
this is true, as it respects the whites, but erroneous as respects 
the coloured people. Those from the middle and northern 
States, have to undergo what is called a seasoning — that is, 
they generally take the fever the first month of their residence, 
but it has rarely proved fatal since accommodations have been 
prepared for their reception: those from Georgia and the Caro- 
linas and the southern parts of Virginia, either escape the fever 
altogether, or have it very slightly. Deaths occur there, indeed 
as in other places, but Doctor Mechlin, the agent, assured me 
that the bills of mortality would show a less proportion of 
deaths, than those of Baltimore, Philadelphia, or New York. 

"I have no hesitation in saying, that I believe Liberia will, 
in time, become a great nation, and be the means, eventually, 
of civilizing a great part of Africa, and I should hope the whole 
of that benighted country." 

The Rev. George M. Erskine, a Presbyterian preacher, of 
uncommon good sense, brought up in Tennessee, went out with 
his family, whose freedom he had obtained through the libe- 
rality of the Christian public. This man took up his residence 
at Caldwell, and after a month's residence, wrote back a letter 
which is remarkable for its sober, discriminating remarks. His 
mind was not of a sanguine temperament; and after surveying 
the state of the colony, he entertained serious apprehensions, 
that the colony would be injured by sending out too great a 
proportion of ignorant, uneducated persons. Of the forty-eight 
emigrants, who went out with him, he observes, that only sev- 
enteen could read, and he expresses strong fears, that instead of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 345 

civilizing the natives, the colonists would gradually approxi- 
mate to their manners. He laments the low state of education 
in the colony; he therefore most earnestly requests, that enlight- 
ened teachers might be sent to Africa. 

But he rejoiced, that he had arrived at the field of his mis- 
sionary labours. "I am," says he, "thankful to the great 
Parent of heaven, that he has continued to me the same feel- 
ings that I had in your country; that is, that I may preach the 
gospel extensively in Africa. He has brought me into the 
harvest field, which is indeed white for labour. And as he 
has brought me here, I hope he will spare my life, and engage 
my heart and hands in that glorious work: but I submit myself 
into his hands, to do as to Him seemeth good." 

Mr. Erskine's fond anticipations of usefulness in Africa, were, 
however, disappointed. His wife and daughter first, and then 
he himself sickened and died, with the fever of the climate. 
This was a severe shock to the colony, and especially to the 
Presbyterians. 



CHAPTER XX. 

AFRICAN EDUCATION— EVENTS IN THE UNITED STATES. 

Whatever may be said in favour of African colonization, it 
cannot be denied, that the colony has been carried on to its 
present state of advancement, with a great sacrifice of valuable 
men ; — men as much distinguished for disinterested benevolence 
and heroic courage, as any men of their age. Some of them, 
also, were endowed with genius of a high order, and had minds 
cultivated by various learning. Pure and fervent piety, also, 
has been a striking characteristic of most of those self-sacrificing 
men, who have fallen a prey to the African fever. 

In the preceding chapter it was mentioned that Dr. An- 
derson had gone out to fill the office of colonial physician, 
left vacant by the advancement of Dr. Mechlin to be colonial 
agent. Dr. Mechlin, on account of his health, having re- 
turned in the same vessel which carried Dr. Anderson out, 



346 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the duties of the agency, in addition to those of physician, 
devolved upon him. But he did not survive long enough 
to realize the difficulties of his situation. By a letter from 
Mr. Anthony D. Williams, vice-agent of the colony, infor- 
mation was received of the death of Dr. J. W, Anderson, of the 
African fever, after an illness often days, "We mingle," says 
the writer, " our tears with yours, in anticipation, when we 
reflect what a great loss the colony has sustained. Dr. Ander- 
son had been but a few weeks among us, when summoned to 
take his departure for a better world; but his gentle and unas- 
suming conduct, his Christian walk and conversation, and his 
medical skill, endeared him to all who had the happiness of 
being perfectly acquainted with him." Another letter says, 
"Well might I have said when Dr. Anderson breathed his last, 
'Come and see how a Christian can die.' He commenced pray- 
ing on Thursday evening, and continued in fervent prayer to 
his Redeemer, to the very last. He offered up a most fervent 
supplication in behalf of the colony, for the civil and military 
officers of the same, for the Colonization Society and its friends, 
and in behalf of his own relatives and friends. Shortly before 
he expired, he said, ' for me to live is Christ, and to die is gain,' 
and repeated the stanza, 

» Jesus can make a dying bed 
Feel soft as downy pillows are, 
While on his breast I lean my head, 
And breathe my life out sweetly there.' 

He desired the following sentence to be inscribed on his tomb : 
' Jesus, for thee I live, for thee I die.' " 

The following obituary notice was published in the African 
Repository, for August, 1830. 

"John Wallace Anderson, the youngest son of Col. Richard 
Anderson, was born in Montgomery county, Maryland, No- 
vember 5, 1802. He commenced his academical studies at 
Rockville, and continued them at Hagerstown, until he was 
prepared to enter the Sophomore class of Nassau Hall, Prince- 
ton, New Jersey, whither he. repaired to obtain a collegiate 
education. The state of his health compelled him to relinquish 
his studies in this institution; and after it was restored, he en- 
tered on the medical course at Philadelphia, where he was gra- 
duated in the spring of 1828. In the fall of the same year, he 
settled, as a practising physician, in Hagerstown, and twelve 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 347 

months afterwards disclosed his determination to devote himself 
to African colonization, by serving in a medical capacity, among 
the colonists of Liberia. In fulfilling this resolution, Dr. An- 
derson had to leave a home rendered delightful by the presence 
of a most interesting family circle, and the ordinances of God's 
house administered in that church of which he was a member. 
He embarked on board the Liberia, on the 17th of January, 
1830, arrived at the colony on the 17th of February, and on 
the 12th of April closed his earthly pilgrimage, after an illness 
of twelve days." 

The editor of the Repository says, concerning this young 
man : " It was our privilege to enjoy his acquaintance but for 
two or three days, just before his departure for Liberia. But 
we saw in him, during this short season, evidences of remark- 
able devotion to the cause of God and man, and a spirit so 
mild, retiring, disinterested, and unwavering, as at once to win 
our affections and deeply impress our hearts." 

On the 20th of October, 1830, the ship Carolinian, char- 
tered by the American Colonization Society, sailed from Nor- 
folk, Virginia, with one hundred and seven coloured emigrants 
for Liberia ; forty-five of whom were emancipated slaves. The 
colonial agent. Dr. Mechlin, and Dr. Humphreys, colonial 
physician, took passage in this vessel. So also did Mr. and 
Mrs. Warner, missionaries to Liberia, sent out by the Baptist 
Board of Foreign Missions. Among the liberated slaves, 
were eight of the descendants of Abduhl Rahaman; and nine 
liberated by C. Bolton, Esq., of Savannah ; twelve by Miss 
Blackburn, near Charlestown, Virginia; seven, by Miss Van 
Meter, Hardy county, Virginia; and seven others left free, 
by a gentleman in Essex county, Virginia : and a few others. 
The children and grand children of Abduhl Rahaman, were 
redeemed and provided for by a fund raised in Philadelphia, 
before mentioned. The emigrants were generally well sup- 
plied with articles most necessary for the voyage. One of the 
females liberated by Miss Blackburn had possession of a pretty 
good library, and many school-books. Two of the women 
sent by this benevolent lady, were accompanied by their bus- 
bands, whom she had redeemed at the price of eight hundred 
dollars. 

It may be mentioned here as a fact worthy of notice, that 
Mr. Robert S. Finley, a son of the Rev. Dr. Finley, the founder 



348 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

of the Colonization Society had entered the field as an agent, 
and the success of his first efforts furnish a favourable prog- 
nostication of his future usefulness in this cause. Rev. Mr. 
Bascom, continued his agency through the year with most en- 
couraging success. 

The Board of Managers, at Washington, were not inatten- 
tive to the importance of promoting education in the colony. 
Indeed, they were sensible that the success of their important 
enterprise depended more on this single point, than any other: 
and " that all the hopes of humanity and religion, connected 
with Liberia, must perish, unless the youth of the colony 
shall be brought under the influence of a well conducted 
system of education." The subject was, therefore, committed 
and re-committed, in order that some plan might be devised 
which would at the same time be eflicient, and adapted to the 
circumstances of the people. And to aid the colonists in carry- 
ing the system which they sent them into effect, a resolution 
was passed, that one tenth part of all the proceeds of public 
lots and other lands, should be appropriated to the support 
of schools in the colony ; and for the present, the whole. 
Their plan provided, that there should be built, at each popu- 
lous settlement in Liberia, a good substantial school-house, and 
that one hundred dollars to this object will be contributed by 
the Board ; and that five discreet persons among the colonists, 
at each town, should have the supervision of the school ; these 
visitors to be appointed annually by the colonial agent and 
council. It was also resolved to recommend to the colonial 
agent and council, to require from the guardians or parents 
of children, such reasonable price of tuition as their respective 
circumstances may justify. 

In the year 1828, a Mission School Society for Africans, 
was instituted at Hartford, Connecticut. The report of the 
directors of this society, in 1830, represents, "that the great 
difficulty with which the school has to contend, has been, that 
very few persons have presented themselves, as candidates 
for admission. After giving the most extensive information 
of the existence of this institution, and that it was prepared to 
receive pupils, no more than six had applied. Since that time, 
two more have been added, the first of whom, however, it 
became soon necessary to dismiss. Some good, however, has 
been effected. Two persons, Mr. Jones and Mr. Csesar, had 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 349 

been recommended to the Directors of the Domestic and For- 
eign Missionary Society of the Protestant Episcopal church, to 
be sent out, under their care, as missionaries to Africa. 

It has been the lot of this benevolent institution, above most 
others, to encounter hostility from opposite quarters. In Geor- 
gia, and South Carolina, at the commencement of the enter- 
prise, there seemed to be a friendly feeling; as was evident 
from the reception given to Dr. Meade, when in 1820 he visited 
that state, to rescue from slavery certain recaptured Africans. 
And the same distinguished agent found in Charleston not only 
a friendly but a liberal spirit, in relation to this object. The 
first remittance from that city, was a sum not less than five 
hundred dollars. But in a little time, a different spirit began 
to manifest itself. One of the most liberal contributors, and 
one of the most distinguished men of the State, has since de- 
clared, that "the scheme of African colonization is both cruel 
and absurd." In 1827, the Colonization Society was denounced 
in the Charleston press, in a series of illiberal and angry essays, 
over the signature of Brutus. It was represented as making 
"an insidious attack on the tranquillity of the south;" as the 
"nest egg, placed in Congress by northern abolitionists, that 
therefrom might be raised and hatched for the south, anxiety, 
inquietude, and troubles to which there could be no end." The 
Charleston Mercury asks, "Will Congress aid a society repro- 
bated at the south, and justly regarded as murderous in its 
principles, and as tending inevitably to the destruction of the pub- 
lic peace ? Will it become an instrument in the hands of fanati- 
cism, and act as the abettor of the incendiary and assassin?" 

It is not easy to understand the reasons of the change which 
occurred in these southern States, unfavourable to the coloniza- 
tion of the free people of colour on the coast of Africa. Cer- 
tainly, the society had not departed from its original principles; 
and there was nothing in the operations of the society, either in 
Africa, or this country, which could have given origin to such 
virulent hostility. The character of the numerous eminent men, 
connected with the institution of slavery, ought to have been 
considered a sufficient pledge that the scheme was not fraught 
with mischief. Such men as Thomas Jefferson, James Madi- 
son, James Monroe, John Marshall, Bushrod Washington, 
Henry Clay, C. F. Mercer, and a host of others, are surety 
30 



350 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

enough to give the stamp of innocence and usefulness to any 
enterprise to which they have given their approbation. 

It would seem, that the true reason why this rancorous 
hostility has arisen in South Carolina, is the operation of the 
society in opening the way for such persons as wished it, to 
emancipate their slaves; and the expectation, often expressed 
by the friends of the society, that efforts of this kind would go 
on increasing, until, it was hoped, slavery would disappear from, 
our soil, and our country be relieved from the odium of this 
black spot in her escutcheon, in the eyes of foreign nations. 
Now, these violent opposers of colonization have adopted the 
opinion, that slavery is no evil to our country, political or moral; 
but a good and useful institution, and very favourable to the 
true spirit of republicanism! These sentiments were not known 
to exist in any part of the country, until they were boldly and 
eloquently expressed in both houses of Congress, by two of the 
most talented and distinguished politicians of South Carolina. 
It is no matter of wonder, that with such opinions as these, 
the scheme of colonization should be opposed; for although it 
proposes nothing but the removal of the free people of colour, 
with their own consent, yet it was not and could not be con- 
cealed, that the friends of this enterprise had ulterior views, 
far more important than the object immediately aimed at. It 
was believed by the founders and advocates of this society, that 
it would exercise a gradual and powerful influence on slavery, 
simply by furnishing benevolent and conscientious persons 
with an opportunity of emancipating their slaves, to their own 
advantage; and without injury to the country, as they would 
be removed as soon as liberated. The direct and immediate 
object of the Colonization Society is good, and if it accomplished 
no more than this, it would be achieving an important end: but 
the idea that it would rapidly promote voluntary emancipation 
by a moral and indirect influence, is that which has especially 
recommended it to its most enlightened friends. There can be 
no doubt, that the great men whose names have been men- 
tioned, patronized the Colonization Society especially in the 
hope, that gradually, but rapidly, it would tend to deliver 
the country from the incubus of slavery, in a way to which 
no one would have any right or reason to object. But such 
as cling to slavery as a national blessing, cannot but dread the 
operation of a cause which will be multiplying, before the eyes 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 351 

of all, instances of voluntary emancipation: and it cannot be 
denied that the occurrence of these effects, in every part of the 
country, where slavery exists, will have a tendency to bring 
before the minds both of masters and slaves, the true nature of 
this relation. 

The opposition which has arisen to the north and the south, 
and which has gone on increasing in virulence and extent, has 
no doubt, had the effect of preventing any efficient action of 
Congress on this subject. At one time, it seemed as if the 
expression of opinion in the legislatures of the States, in 
the ecclesiastical bodies of all denominations, and in the meet- 
ings of the people, would have so pressed this subject on the 
attention of Congress, that, in obedience to the voice of the 
people, the national government would have not only patronized 
the society, but have extended over Liberia the broad shield 
of its protection. That pleasing vision, however, has passed 
away. Our chief hope now is, that the States, which are 
interested, will, as in the case of Maryland, appropriate an 
annual sum sufficient to transport all the free people of colour, 
who may wish to go to Africa. Virginia made some attempt 
to follow the example of her sister Maryland, but has not 
proceeded pari passu with her: the appropriation made by 
her legislature has from some unwise provisions of the law, 
been entirely ineffectual. But perhaps, we shall see, in the 
end, that it was best, that in the early stages of the colony, 
it should depend only on private enterprise and liberality. 

The fourteenth annual meeting of the Colonization Society 
was held in Washington City, Wednesday evening, January 19, 
1831. Mr. C. F. Mercer, one of the vice-presidents, presided. 
The annual report of the Board of Managers to the society 
was read by Mr. Gurley, the corresponding secretary, and 
exhibited many interesting and encouraging facts, in regard 
to the state and prospects of the colony, and of the progress 
made by the society in the United States. It appeared that two 
vessels, the Carolinian and the Volador had recently sailed 
with emigrants for Africa. The receipts of the society, during 
the past year, were above twenty-seven thousand dollars, ot 
which sum nearly eleven thousand dollars arose from collec- 
tions on the fourth of July. And the receipts of 1830, exceeded 
those of 1829 by eight thousand dollars. 

Various resolutions were proposed and adopted, but none of 



352 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

them were of very great importance. Addresses were made 
by Elliott Cresson, Esq., of Philadelphia; by the Hon. Mr. 
Wilson, of Maryland; by Mr. Custis, of Arlington; by Gerrit 
Smith, of New York; by Mr. Doddridge, of Virginia; by the 
"Rev. Calvin Colton, of Massachusetts; by the Hon. Mr, Freling- 
huysen, of New Jersey; by the Hon. Mr. Bates, of Massachu- 
setts; and by J. S. Benham, Esq. 

By the successive arrivals of the Carolinian of Philadelphia, 
the Volador of Baltimore, the Zembuca of Baltimore, and the 
Reaper of Salem, intelligence was received from the colony, 
and a letter from Dr. Mechlin, the colonial agent. These des- 
patches mention the death of the wife and child of the Rev. 
Benjamin Rush Skinner, the Baptist missionary, who, under 
the direction of the Baptist Board, had gone out, last year, to 
Liberia. 

Dr. Mechlin remarks, " I was much gratified, on my arrival, 
to find affairs in a mom prosperous condition than my most 
sanguine anticipations had led me to expect. Indeed, the spirit 
of improvement appears to have pervaded all classes. Upwards 
of twenty-five substantial stone and frame buildings have been 
erected in Monrovia, and several walls are now in progress; 
and I am credibly informed (for I have not had time to exam- 
ine for myself) that our agricultural interests have advanced 
more during the present, than any preceding year — in fact the 
people seem to be sensible that much may be effected by a 
little exertion, and appear determined to use their utmost efforts 
to develope the resources of the country." 

" Our relations with the natives continue to be of the most 
amicable kind, and our influence over them is rapidly extending. 
Applications have been recently made to receive under our 
protection, several in our vicinity. A head-man, named Far 
Gay, has placed himself with his people under our protection, 
surrendering all authority over them to the colonial govern- 
ment. Prince Will and King Tom, of Junk, wish to make a 
similar arrangement, but not exactly on the same terms. The 
sea-coast already belongs to us; they now wish us to purchase 
the interior from them, (which can be effected at a moderate 
price,) and assume the internal government of the country. 
This they are anxious to effect, to secure themselves from being 
molested by King Boatswain; who has been for some time at 
war with the tribes at Little Bassa. I think it advisable, that 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 353 

their request should be acceded to; otherwise we might lose 
the influence we now possess, and want of power to protect 
them would no doubt be assigned as a reason for our refusal. 
At present, the natives in our vicinity deem it no small privi- 
lege to be permitted to call themselves Americans. 

" Our public schools continue much in the same state as when 
I departed for the United States, but the colonists seem to be 
more alive to the importance of education, and I have no doubt 
will cheerfully afford every assistance in their power towards 
rendering the regulation lately adopted by the Board as efficient 
as possible. I cannot close this despatch without expressing 
my warmest approbation of the able manner in which the colo- 
nial afl'airs have been conducted by the present vice-agent, Mr. 
A. D. Williams. Dnring my absence, every thing appears to 
have gone on with the greatest regularity; and the most rigid 
economy, consistent with the public welfare, has been observed. 
Indeed, under all circumstances, and in every situation, I think 
him entitled to your unlimited confidence." 

In a letter written some weeks afterwards, Dr. Mechlin says: 
" It is with pleasure I announce to you, the safe arrival of the 
brig Volador, after a voyage of thirty-nine days, with all her 
passengers, eighty-three in number, in good health. I think, 
from the appearance of these people, they will prove an acqui- 
sition to our colony. They have all been landed with their 
effects, and with few exceptions, sent to Caldwell, where they 
will be placed under the medical superintendence of Dr. Tod- 
sen, until they have in a measure become acclimated, when a 
portion of them will be located at Millsburg. I think it proba- 
ble, that most of them will have the fever slightly, as they came 
from the lower parts of Virginia and North Carolina. The 
experience of former emigrations having proved that the disease 
of the country affects such in a slighter degree than those from 
the northern, or from the mountainous parts of the southern 
Slates. 

" On the 5th inst. I exposed at public sale, on a credit of three, 
six, and nine months, some of the lots in Monrovia, on the mar- 
gin of the river — the result exceeded my most sanguine expec- 
tations, and will place at my disposal for the purposes of edu- 
cation, a much greater sum than I anticipated, and will enable 
me, at once, to carry into operation the school-system, author- 
30* 



354 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

ized by the Board. Enclosed, you will receive a copy of an 
act for the support of schools, passed by the agent and council. 

" The request of the Board that I should discourage the sale 
of ardent spirits in the colony, shall receive my earliest and 
most serious consideration. 

" The school-houses will be commenced inmiediately, and I 
hope completed by the middle of April. Directors of schools 
have been appointed agreeably to the resolutions of the Board, 
as well as teachers for Monrovia and Caldwell. 

"The deaths among the Carolinian's emigrants have been 
more numerous than I anticipated, and have occurred chiefly in 
those families from the mountainous parts of Virginia. Out of 
the one hundred and seven emigrants by this vessel, twenty 
have died." 

By information still more recent than the above despatches, 
it was learned that the Rev. Benjamin Rush Skinner died on 
board the Liberia, on his return to the United States, on the 
first of March, 1831; and that Dr. Humphries, the colonial 
physician, died at Monrovia, of a pulmonary aff"ection, on the 
22d of February. Some more deaths of the emigrants by the 
Carolinian, had occurred; but none of those who came out in 
the Volador. The health of Dr. Mechlin was improving, and 
Dr. Todsen was well. 

In a letter from Dr. Mechlin to Elliott Cresson, Esq., there is 
some information not so fully contained in his former communi- 
cations. This letter bears date February 21, 1832. 

" The prospects of the colony were never brighter than at 
present. Tne improvements in agriculture, commerce, and 
buildings, during my short visit to the United States, have been 
astonishingly great, and far exceeded my most sanguine expec- 
tations; and should nothing intervene to interrupt our present 
advancement, our little town will ere long, be one of the most 
desirable places of resort on the western coast of Africa. I 
have been informed, by a captain, from the leeward, that there 
is, at present, much more business done at this place than at 
any of the old European settlements on the Gold Coast. 

" We have, at present, among our recaptured Africans, many 
who, on their arrival here, were scarcely a remove, in point of 
civilization, from the native tribes around us, but who, at pre- 
sent, are as pious and devoted servants of Christ, as you will 
meet in any community: and by their walk and conversation, 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 355 

afford an example worthy of imitation. They have a house 
for pubhc worship, and Sunday-schools established, which are 
well attended; and their church is regularly supplied every Sun- 
day from among our own clergy. These people I consider as 
forming an admirable medium of communication, or link, be- 
tween the savage natives and civilized colonists from the United 
States, and will, I have no doubt, prove a powerful means of 
spreading the light of Christianity and civilization over this 
benighted country. 

"As to the morals of the colonists, I consider them much bet- 
ter than those of the United States : that is, you may take an 
equal number of the inhabitants from any section of the Union, 
and you will find more drunkards, more profane swearers, 
Sabbath-breakers, &c., than in Liberia. Indeed, I know no 
country where things are conducted more quietly and orderly 
than in this colony. You rarely hear an oath, and as to riots 
or breaches of the peace, I recollect of but one instance, and 
that of a trifling nature, since I assumed the government of the 
colony. The Sabbath is more strictly observed than I ever saw 
it in the United States. Our Sunday-schools are well attended, 
not only by the children of the colonists, but also by the native 
children who reside among us." 

The legislature of Maryland had already, with most of her 
sister States, expressed her approbation of the objects of the 
Colonization Society; but, this year, Mr. Brawner brought into 
the House of Representatives a set of resolutions, which contem- 
plated something further than the mere expression of opinion. 
They were as follows, 

" Resolved, That the increased proportion of the free people 
of colour in this State, to the white population, the evils growing 
out of their connexion and unrestrained association with the 
slaves, their manner of obtaining a subsistence, and their with- 
drawing a large portion of employment from the labouring class 
of the white population, are subjects of momentous and grave 
consideration to the good people of this State. 

''Resolved, That as philanthropists and lovers of freedom, we 
deplore the existence of slavery among us, and would use our 
utmost exertions to ameliorate its condition; yet we consider the 
unrestricted power of manumission as fraught with ultimate 
evils of a more dangerous tendency than the circumstances of 
slavery alone; and that any act, having for its object the mitiga- 



356 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tion of these joint evils, not inconsistent with other paramount 
considerations, would be worthy the attention and deUberation 
of the representatives of a free, hberal-minded, and enhghtened 
people; therefore, 

^^ Resolved, That we consider the colonization of the free peo- 
ple of colour in Africa, as the commencement of a system, by 
which, if judicious encouragement be afforded, these evils may 
be measurably diminished, so that, in process of time, the rela- 
tive proportion of the black to the white population, will hard- 
ly be matter for serious or unpleasant consideration. 

" Ordered, therefore, that a committee of five members be 
appointed by the chair, with instructions to report a bill, based, 
as nearly as may be, upon the principles contained in the fore- 
going resolutions." 

These resolutions were adopted, and the committee appointed. 

In order that we may form a correct opinion of the state of 
the colony, it is desirable to have the testimony not only of 
friends, and residents, but also of impartial travellers and visi- 
ters. The favourable report of Captain Sherman has already 
been laid before the reader; we will now add that of Captain 
Woodside. In a letter, dated the 2d of April, 1831, he says, " I 
returned from Mesurado, via Philadelphia, in November last, and 
I must say this visit afforded me more real satisfaction, than any 
I had hitherto made to Africa. Being in a great measure un- 
trammelled with business, I had leisure to visit Caldwell and 
King Bromley's town, and was much pleased, I assure you, with 
my excursion. The beauty of the situation of Caldwell, the 
fertility of the soil, and the air of comfort and happiness, which 
reigns throughout, will, I hope, remain an everlasting evidence 
of the unceasing exertions of our friend Ashmun. I dined 
with King Bromley, and had a long conversation with him on 
the affairs of the colony — he frankly admitted to me that he 
believed no white man but Ashmun, could have reconciled him 
to the loss of the beach trade — that Ashmun had been a father 
to him and to his people, and that he had convinced him satis- 
factorily, that trading in his fellow men was criminal and 
wrong." 

During this year, (1S31,) a considerable movement took place 
in Kentucky, respecting the gradual emancipation of slaves. 
A number of slaveholders, convinced that immediate emanci- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 357 

pation was not practicable nor desirable, formed a society, the 
object of which was, to promote the gradual abolition of sla- 
very; and any person by becoming a member of this society, 
pledged himself to provide for the freedom of all the posterity 
of his slaves, which should be born after a certain day; in this, 
setting an example of the course which they supposed the 
legislature of the State might safely pursue. 

The colonization scheme was generally approved in this 
State; its most distinguished cities having patronized it from 
the beginning; and the ministers of the gospel, of all denomi- 
nations, being found amongst its zealous advocates. The Rev. 
Mr. Bascom had already traversed the State; but now Mr. 
Robert S. Finley, being appointed permanent agent for the 
west, held many meetings, and by his powerful addresses gave 
a new impetus to the cause. 

Mr. Finley, in his report to the Board, observes, "that there 
is no law in Kentucky prohibiting the instruction of slaves to 
read and write, and that great efforts are making to encourage 
and assist them in doing so. After delivering an address to a 
large and respectable audience in this place, (Lexington,) a 
venerable clergyman, who had lived here ever since the early 
settlement of the country, arose, and in a solemn and impressive 
manner, urged the necessity and duty of having a Sunday- 
school established in every kitchen where there were slaves, 
to instruct them to read the Bible; having especially in view, 
the object of preparing them to be useful and respectable citi- 
zens of Liberia. This gentleman has a Sunday-school taught 
in his kitchen, by a very respectable and intelligent man, his 
slave, where from fifty to a hundred, mostly slaves, are weekly 
instructed. I visited his school last Sunday, and found it re- 
markably well ordered, and was informed by the teacher, that 
about thirty of his scholars could read in the New Testament." 

The cause of colonization found also a zealous and able 
advocate in Illinois, in the person of Cyrus Edwards, Esq. An 
address of this gentleman, delivered in Vandalia, may be read 
in the number of the African Repository for the month of 
June, 1S3L It is lucid and convincing, and will well repay the 
perusal. 

We have another very satisfactory testimony in favour of 
the colony of Liberia, from Captain Kennedy, a distinguished 
naval officer, the late commander of the Java. This testimony 



358 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

is the more unsuspected, because Captain Kennedy acknow- 
ledges, that he had imbibed prejudices against the colonization 
enterprise. On this account, "I sought out," says he, "the 
most shrewd and inteUigent of the colonists, many of whom 
were personally known to me, and by long and wary conver- 
sations, endeavoured to elicit from them, any dissatisfaction 
with their condition (if such existed) or any latent design to 
return to their native country — neither of these did I observe : 
on the contrary, I thought I could perceive, that they thought 
they had started into a new existence — that disencumbered of 
the mortifying relations in which they formerly stood in society, 
they felt themselves proud in their attitude, and seemed con- 
scious, that while they were the founders of a new empire, 
they were prosecuting the noble purpose of regenerating the 
land of their fathers. 

"I was pleased to observe, that they were impressed with 
the vast importance of a proper education, not only of their own 
children, but the children of the natives, and that to this they 
looked, confidently, as the means of their high object, namely 
the civilization of their benighted brethren of Africa. 

"I observed, with great satisfaction, that their children in 
many instances could converse in the languages of the tribes 
by which the colony is surrounded. Most of the articles of 
commerce which can be profitably used in barter with the 
natives are familiar to your readers; but there are yet some 
which have not employed the enterprise of our citizens. 

"In the article of salt, more especially, a most advantageous 
traffic is conducted, and yet susceptible of great increase. In 
bartering with that article, the colonists readily receive gold 
dust, ivory, dye-wood, &c., at the rate of two dollars per quart. 
It is matter of astonishment that our enterprising citizens 
have not sought, in that particular article, a channel for the 
most profitable speculation. An extent of eight or ten leagues 
south of the cape is well adapted for the making of salt by 
evaporation, with comparatively little labour. Indeed the isle 
of Mayo, (one of the Cape de Verde islands,) only eight or nine 
days sail from Mesurado, would furnish abundance of salt for 
the purposes of the colony at a low price. I would recom- 
mend for the better prosecution of this traffic that the salt be 
imported in iron pots and kettles of various sizes, as they could 
be disposed of at a very great price. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 359 

" It gives me pleasure to state, that the colonists are turning 
their attention to the cultivation of coffee. That this article of 
produce is to prove a vast source of wealth to the colonists, 
there can be no doubt. The labour and expense of its cultiva- 
tion will be comparatively small: indeed, they have but to 
clear away the forest trees, and the plantations are ready to 
their hands. There are two descriptions of the plant indi- 
genous; one a shrub, evidently the same as the Mocha, but 
yielding a berry of superior flavour: the other, a tree, fre- 
quently attaining the height of forty feet. A specimen of the 
latter I brought with me to Cuba, in the Java, and left it with 
Mr. Shaler, our consul. 

The August number of the Repository for 1S31, is nearly 
filled with the learned, profound, and comprehensive speech of 
Mr. (now Rev.) R. J. Breckinridge, delivered before the Colo- 
nization Society of Kentucky, at Frankfort. This speech, 
while it embraces, and clearly exhibits the great leading prin- 
ciples by which hereditary slavery is condemned, and should 
as soon as possible be removed from society; yet is too indis- 
criminate in denouncing the present holders of slaves, as 
though they had it in their power at once to relieve themselves 
from this curse, which they have inherited from their fore- 
fathers. Whatever may be said of slavery in the abstract, no 
man is morally bound to liberate his slaves, unless in his con- 
science, he is convinced, that he can place them in a better 
situation. Again, liberty is a blessing which requn-es certain 
qualifications in the subject, without which it is no blessing, 
but may be the very reverse. Liberty, therefore, should not 
be granted to those who are incapable of making a good use 
of it. On this principle, children, minors, idiots, and the insane, 
are better without liberty than with it; and adults may be in 
such a state of ignorance and moral degradation, that their 
condition, as domestic slaves, is far better for them than unre- 
strained liberty. They are incapable of self government, and 
of providing for their own safety and subsistence. Until such 
persons are prepared for liberty by a suitable education, there 
is no moral obligation on any one to bestow liberty upon them. 
But if they are in our power, we are under obligations to do 
all we can to improve their condition. And when freedom is 
granted to such as have been long in bondage, it should be 
granted not suddenly, but gradually. The attention and exer- 



360 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tions of the philanthropist should first be directed to the improve- 
ment of men, before it aims to give them unrestrained liberty. 

The public mind, especially in the southern States, was greatly 
agitated and alarmed, by a sudden insurrection of the negroes 
in Southampton county, Virginia, which occurred in August, 
1831. This insurrection was most unexpected, and upon careful 
inquiry, was found to be confined to a very few persons. It 
originated and was carried into effect by a fanatical preacher, 
called Nat Turner; who, having enlisted a few miserable, de- 
luded slaves in his preposterous schemes, fell upon a number 
of defenceless families, massacreing men, women, and children 
indiscriminately. They rushed from house to house, increasing 
their number by the sudden terror which they inspired, and 
were not suppressed until they had murdered more than sixty 
persons, most of whom belonged to respectable and peaceable 
families, against whom, these infuriated miscreants could have 
had no cause of offence. 

It is not surprising that such an event should produce much 
excitement, and give a view of danger not commonly appre- 
hended. When the legislature of the State of Virginia met at 
the close of the year, a public and most interesting debate was 
held on the subject of slavery, and emancipation, for several 
weeks ; and although it resulted in no decisive measures, yet 
it was the means of diffusing much light through the commu- 
nity; and some measures were taken, though not judiciously 
planned, for aiding the Colonization Society to remove the free 
people of colour from the State. 

The brig Criterion, sailed from Norfolk for Liberia on the 2d 
of August, with supplies, and forty-six emigrants. Of these, 
thirty-nine were manumhted by the following persons, respec- 
tively: eighteen by Mrs. Elizabeth Greenfield, near Natchez, 
Mississippi; eight by Mr. Williams, of Ehzabelh City, North 
Carolina; seven by General Jacocks, of Perquimans county, 
North CaroUna; four by Thomas Davis, Montgomery county, 
Maryland; one by J. W. Green, Esq., Kentucky; one by H. 
Robinson, Esq., Hampton, Virginia; the remainder, except Mr. 
Coesar and wife, of Philadelphia, and a recaptured African from 
Georgia, had been under the care of the Society of Friends, 
in North Carolina. Of these liberated slaves, two only were 
above forty years of age, and thirty-one were under thirty-five; 
and twenty-two were under twenty years of age. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 361 

Towards the close of the year 1831, several vessels sailed 
from the United States, carrying out emigrants, and supplies for 
the colonists. One of these was the scliooner JNIargaret, which 
the Board had been enabled to purchase, by means of a loan 
granted by the Pennsylvania Colonization Society. This beau- 
tiful new vessel sailed from Philadelphia on the 18th, and from 
Newcastle on the 21st of October. Captain Abels, of Phila- 
delphia, was employed as master, and Mr. Frazier, of Balti- 
more, as mate, and her crew consisted of good looking coloured 
men, one of whom had been several times at the colony. 

The only emigrants which she carried out, were two fami- 
lies ; the one, that of the Rev. William Johnson, of Hartford, Con- 
necticut ; the other, a family liberated by the Rev. Dr. Matthews, 
then of Shepherdstown, Virginia. This venerable man in- 
curred an expense of four hundred dollars, to secure the free- 
dom of one of these slaves, that he might remove with his wife 
to Liberia. {African Repository, November, 1831, p. 2S4.) 

The schooner Orion sailed from Baltimore for Liberia, on 
Monday the 26th of October, with between thirty and forty 
emigrants, all from Maryland. The funds for this expedition 
were raised entirely by the Auxiliary Colonization Society of 
Maryland. The people of this State seemed more generally to 
enter into the scheme of colonizing their free people of colour, 
than any other. 

Information was also received from Mr. R. S. Finley, the 
asent for the Western States, that at least a hundred emigrants, 
within his knowledge, were willing and ready to depart to 
Liberia. Also, that a fine ship had been chartered to carry out 
a number of emigrants, by Mr. McPhail, of Norfolk. Her 
name was The James Perkins. 

This fine ship sailed from Norfolk on the 9th of December, 
with three hundred and thirty-nine emigrants; all of whom 
had been highly recommended for intelligence, good morals, 
and industrious habits. In this vessel, though the number was 
so large, they had the most ample accommodations, with liberal 
supplies, judiciously laid in. Most of these emigrants were 
from the lower parts of Virginia; and a great proportion from 
Southampton county, the scene of the late horrid massacre. 

It was also understood, that if the funds requisite were in 
hand, another expedition of as great a number might be easily 
fitted out. Mr. McPhail, who attended to the whole business 
31 



363 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

of fitting out this vessel, and providing for the emigrants, has, 
bj'- his zeal, energy, and diligence, laid the society under lasting 
obligations for his services. 

Captain A. H. Weaver, ex-commander of the brig Henry 
Eckford, having spent a few weeks in the colony, and having, 
on his return, met with Captain Waters, from Salem, mentioned 
the unusual mortahty which had occurred among the emigrants, 
who had sailed in the Carolinian. This report was noised abroad 
to the injury of the colony; he, therefore, published a letter, in 
which he gives his opinion, not only of the climate of Liberia, 
but of the general condition of the colony. And as it is our 
object to exhibit the views of intelligent and impartial men on 
this subject, a few extracts from this letter will here be given. 
"Nature seems to have ordained, that on a removal from a 
temperate clime to the torrid zone of Africa, in order to be 
acclimated, it is necessary, in most cases, to pass through the 
ordeal of fever." "It is, I believe, a true assertion, that the 
natives of that part of the coast are uncommonly healthy — 
so are the acclimated emigrants. In future, when emigrants 
are sent there, from the interior of the country, I would earnestly 
recommend, that the detention on the sea-board, and at the 
mouth of the St. Paul's and Mesurado rivers, should be as short 
as possible. By transferring them measurably beyond the 
atmosphere of the mangrove swamps at the mouth of these 
rivers, I have no doubt their health will be protected in the 
ratio that the change of situation is diminished. 

" The charge of unhealthiness against Liberia, for the colour- 
ed races, cannot be supported — it is the birth-place of the black 
man, to which his constitution is peculiarly adapted; and though 
estranged for a time from his native clime, nature will undoubt- 
edly triumphantly resume her sway, whenever he returns to 
the land of his fathers. Africa is the black man's home, phy- 
sically. Morally he should aspire for a residence within her 
boundaries. 

"If our government will deign to foster that colony, a very 
short time will suffice to render it of great importance in a com- 
mercial point of view, independent of home considerations. 
Large quantities of our domestic cotton goods are already con- 
sumed on the coast, and England may, in a few years, be driven 
from the competition, as she has been from the Cape de Verde 
Islands, solely from our fabrics being cheaper and more service- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 363 

able. There are millions to be clothed in Africa, and they have 
already learned to discriminate between the intrinsic value of the 
coarse productions of the British and American looms. In the 
tobacco trade we can have no rivals. The north and the south 
are deeply interested in the success of our sable colony. The 
north will find a mart for her surplus manufactures, and the 
south a home and refuge for a portion of its population, which 
every good citizen must wish to see speedily transferred thither — 
I mean the free people of colour of the United States. The cost 
of transportation is by many persons of intelligence deemed an 
insurmountable barrier. Avarice — the avarice of England, 
brought them here. Shall we make the painful admission, that 
that vice so far exceeds the combined virtues of a Christian com- 
munity, as to render its deeds irrevocable? No sir; it is in the 
power of the American people, with a due understanding of 
the case, and of the magnitude of the object, to effect much by 
a simultaneous movement. The abolition of slavery is not 
supposed. I am fully aware of its present impracticability. But 
allow me to make a single calculation as to the feasibility of 
removing the free coloured population of the twenty-four States, 
from this country to Liberia. That population I will assume at 
three hundred thousand souls, requiring six hundred ships to 
transport them, men, women, and children. Six thousand dol- 
lars is the sum for which a ship competent to the voyage can 
be chartered. Thus we have a sum of three million six hun- 
dred thousand dollars; an amount of money requisite to dis- 
burden ourselves, and found an empire in Africa. After the 
payment of the national debt, to what more hallowed purpose, 
and more to the glory of the United States could a surplus 
revenue be applied? Could that object be efiected, gradual 
emancipation would probably follow, in the states of Dela- 
ware, Maryland, and Virginia, upon condition of transplan- 
tation in Africa. Each state, I have shown, is interested in the 
successful colonization of Liberia." 



364 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



CHAPTER XXI. 



EVENTS OF 1833. 

The fifteenth anniversary meeting of the American Coloniza- 
tion Society was held on Monday, the 16th of January, 1833, 
in the hall of the House of Representatives of the United States. 
At the hour of meeting the hall was filled to overflowing with 
an assembly composed of many of tiie otficers of government, 
members of both Houses of Congress, distinguished strangers 
and citizens, and a large number of the ladies of the metropolis. 

The Hon. Charles F. Mercer, one of the vice-presidents, took 
the chair. 

Among the earliest communicatioas made to this meeting, 
were letters from Lafayette, from James Madison, and from 
John Marshall. It cannot but be gratifying to be able to com- 
municate some of the sentiments of Mr. Madison, and that near 
the close of life, on this interesting subject. After mentioning 
the difficulty which he now found to use the pen, he says, " I 
may observe, in brief, that the society had always my good 
wishes, though with hopes of its success less sanguine than were 
entertained by others, found to be better judges; and that I feel 
the greatest pleasure at the progress already made by the society, 
and the encouragement to encounter remaining difficulties, af- 
forded by the earlier and greater ones already overcome. Many 
circumstances, at the present moment, seem to concur in bright- 
ening the prospects of the society, and cherishing the hope 
that the time will come, when the dreadful calamity which 
has so long afflicted our country, and filled so many with despair, 
will be gradually removed, and by means consistent with 
justice, peace, and the general satisfaction: thus giving to our 
country the full enjoyment of the blessings of liberty, and to the 
world the full benefit of its great example. I never considered 
the main difficulty of the great work as lying in the deficiency of 
emancipations, but in an inadequacy of asylums for such a 
growing mass of population, and in the great expense in re- 
moving it to its new home. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 365 

"The spirit of private manumission as the laws may permit, 
and the exiles may consent, is increasing, and will increase ; and 
there are sufficient indications that the public authorities, in 
slave-holding States, are looking forward to interpositions in 
different forms, that must have a powerful effect. With respect 
to the new abode for the emigrants, all agree that the choice 
made by the Society is rendered peculiarly appropriate, by con- 
siderations which need not be repeated; and if other situations 
should be found eligible receptacles for a portion of them, the 
prospects in Africa seem to be expanding in a highly encourag- 
ing degree." 

But we would call the attention of our readers especially to 
the following expression of opinion of this clear-sighted and 
upright politician, contained in the same letter. 

'•' In contemplating the pecuniary resources needed for the 
removal of such a number to so great a distance, my thoughts 
and hopes have been long turned to the rich fund presented in 
the western lands of the nation, which will soon entirely cease 
to be under a pledge for another object. The great one in 
question is truly of a national character ; and it is known that 
distinguished patriots, not dwelling in slave-holding States, have 
viewed the object in that light, and would be willing to let the 
national domain be a resource in effecting it. Should it be 
remarked, that the States, though all may be interested in re- 
lieving our country from the coloured population, are not 
equally so, it is but fair to recollect, that the sections most to be 
benefitted, are those whose cessions created the fund to be dis- 
posed of. 

"I am aware of the constitutional obstacle which has pre- 
sented itself, but if the general government be reconciled to the 
application of the territorial fund to the removal of the coloured 
population, a grant to Congress of the necessary authority could 
be carried, with little delay, through the forms of the constitution. 

" Sincerely wishing an increasing success to the labours of 
the Society, I pray you to be assured of my esteem, and to 
accept my friendly salutations. James Madison." 

The Hon. Judge Marshall, in his letter, read at the same time, 
goes into the same subject, treated by Mr. Madison, respecting 
the western lands, as a resource from which the necessary 
funds for the purpose of transporting the people of colour might 
be derived. He says, speaking of the right of the government 
31* 



366 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to aid in defending the coast from pirates, and putting down the 
slave-trade, " I regret that its power to grant pecuniary aid is 
not equally free from question. On this subject, I have always 
thought, and still think, that the proposition made by Mr. King, 
in the Senate, is the most unexceptionable, and the most effec- 
tive that can be devised. The fund would probably operate 
as rapidly as would be desirable, when we take into view the 
other resources which might come in aid of it ; and its applica- 
tion would be, perhaps, less exposed to those constitutional 
objections which are made in the South, than the application of 
money drawn from the treasury, and raised by taxes. The 
lands are the properly of the United States, and have hereto- 
fore been disposed of, by the government, under the idea of 
absolute ownership. The cessions of the several States con- 
veyed them to the general government, for the common benefit, 
without prescribing any limits to the judgment of congress, or 
any rule, by which that judgment shall be exercised. The 
removal of our coloured population, is, 1 think, a common ob- 
ject, by no means confined to the slave States, although they 
are more immediately interested in it. The whole union would 
be strengthened by it, and relieved from a danger whose extent 
can scarcely be estimated." 

Among the distinguished men who attended this meeting and 
look part in its proceedings, were the Hon. Edward Everett, of 
Massachusetts, Hon. Mr. Archer, of Virginia, Hon. Mr. Mar- 
shall, of Kentucky, Rev. Leonard Bacon, and Rev. D. Fitch, of 
New Haven, the Hon. Mr. Bates, of Massachusetts, and the 
Hon. ]\Ir. Vance, of Ohio. 

The thanks of the society were voted to J. H. McClure, Esq., 
for his munificent donation of ten thousand dollars. 

The most encouraging intelligence was received from Liberia 
up to the date of December, 1831, by the brig Criterion. The 
emigrants who went out in that vessel, after a tedious passage, 
arrived in safety, having experienced no mortality from the 
effects of the climate. The Liberia Herald, received by this 
arrival, gave a very flattering account of the increasing trade 
and enterprise of the settlers. After mentioning the valuable 
products of Grand Bassa, the Herald observes: 

"The beach is lined with Liberians of all ages, from twelve 
to fifty years, eager in the pursuit of traffic, and in the acquisi- 
tion of cam-wood; and it is astonishing what little time is 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 367 

necessary to qualify, even the youngest, to drive as hard a bar- 
gain as any roving merchant from the land of steady habits, 
with his assortment of tin-ware, nutmegs, books, or dry goods." 
Captain Abels, a pious and sensible man, who went out in 
charge of the colonial brig Margaret Mercer, having returned 
to Washington, gave his views of the colony in the following 
interesting letter: 

"Washington, February 10, 1832. 

^^ Dear Sir: Having just arrived in the United States from 
the colony of Liberia, to which place I went as master of the 
schooner Margaret ]\Iercer, and where I remained thirteen days, 
during which time I was daily on shore, and carefully observed 
the stateof affairs, and inquired into the condhion of the people, 
I venture to state some facts in regard to the circumstances and 
prospects of the colony. On the 14th December I arrived, and 
on the 15th went on shore, and was received in the most polite 
and friendly manner by the governor. Dr. Mechlin, who intro- 
duced me to the ministers and principal inhabitants. All the 
colonists appeared to be in good health. All my expectations 
in regard to the aspect of things, the health, harmony, order, 
contentment, industry, and general prosperity of the settlers, 
were more than realized. There are about two hundred build- 
ings in the town of Monrovia, extending along the Cape Mesu- 
rado, not far from a mile and a quarter. Most of these are 
good substantial houses and stores, (the first story of many of 
them being of stone,) and some of them handsome, spacious, 
painted, and with Venitian blinds. Nothing struck me as more 
remarkable than the great superiority, in intelligence, manners, 
conversation, dress, and general appearance in every respect, of 
the people over their coloured brethren in America. So much 
was I pleased with what I saw, that I observed to the people, 
should I make a true report, it would hardly be credited in the 
United States. Among all that I conversed with, / did not 
find a discontented person, or hear one express a desire to 
return to America. I saw no intemperance, nor did I hear a 
profane word uttered by any one. Being a minister of the 
gospel, on Christmas day I preached both in the Methodist and 
Baptist church, to full and attentive congregations of from three 
to four hundred persons in each. I know of no place where 
the Sabbath appears to be more respected than in Monrovia. 
I was fflad to see that the colonial agent or governor is a 



36S HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

constant attendant on divine service, and appears desirous of 
promoting the moral and religious welfare of the people. Most 
of the settlers appear to be rapidly acquiring property; and I 
have no doubt they are doing better for themselves and their 
children in Liberia, than they could do in any other part of the 
world. Could the free people of colour in this country but 
see the real condition of their brethren who have settled in 
Africa, I am persuaded they would require no other motive 
to induce them to emigrate. This is my decided and deliberate 
judgment. Very respectfully, sir, your friend and servant, 

William Abels." 

The animated and protracted debate in the legislature of 
Virginia, this winter, was, on many accounts, a very remarka- 
ble event. The principal speeches delivered, on this occasion, 
have been published; and it does not comport with the plan of 
our work to go into any details respecting this interesting trans- 
action. After the close of the debate, Mr. Broadnax, from the 
select committee on slaves and free negroes, reported a bill, 
"devising the ways and means for deporting free negroes, and 
such as may become free, to Liberia." The bill, as modified 
and amended, proposed an appropriation of ^35,000 for the 
present year, and ^90,000 for the next, to be expended in colo- 
nizing the free people of colour; and it passed the House of 
Delegates, but failed in the Senate. 

On the 30th of January, the following resolution was reported 
from the select committee on coloured population, in the House 
of Delegates, and was concurred in : 

^^ Resolved, That it is expedient to apply to the General Go- 
vernment to procure a territory or territories, beyond the limits 
of the United States, to which the several States may remove 
their free coloured population." 

At the same time the legislature of Maryland had this sub- 
ject under consideration, and adopted measures, of which a full 
account will be given in its proper place. 

Even in congress there was a movement beyond that to 
which the caution of the national legislature had permitted 
them to go before. The following resolution offered by Mr. 
Jenifer, of Maryland, with some other colonization papers, was 
referred to a select committee. 

^^ Resolved, That a select committee be appointed to inquire 
into the expediency of making an appropriation for the purpose 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 369 

of removing from the United States the free people of colour, 
and colonizing them on the coast of Africa, or elsewhere." 

About this time, occurred one of the most horrid instances 
of merciless barbarity, which can be found, even in the blood 
stained annals of the slave trade. It appeared sufficiently 
attested, that a slaver when pursued by the Fair Rosamond 
and Black Joke, tenders to the frigate Dryade, actually threw 
overboard one hundred and eighty slaves, manacled together: 
four of whom only were picked up ! ! 

Information of a pleasing kind was received early in the 
year, from that intrepid and devoted friend of colonization, 
Elliott Cresson, Esq., who had paid a visit to England, to pro- 
mote those just views in regard to the scheme of colonization 
which were entertained in America. It appeared that he had 
been very successful in awaking the attention and sympathies 
of the English nation to the importance of the great scheme of 
philanthropy, in which the society is engaged. This visit of 
Mr. Cresson originated in the impulse of his own benevolent 
feelings, and was entirely at his own expense. 

The return of the James Perkins, brought favourable accounts 
from Liberia. Captain Crowell arrived there after a quick 
passage of thirty-five days, and landed three hundred and forty- 
five emigrants, all in good health. The captain states, that he 
had far less trouble with them on the passage than he expected, 
and that they were during the voyage, almost perfectly exempt 
from disease. They were immediately transferred to Caldwell, 
and appeared well satisfied with their own accommodations, 
and with all that they saw in the colony. The favourable 
impressions, relative to the colony, made on the minds of the 
natives, appeared to be increasing daily. Applications were 
continually received requesting settlements to be made on 
different points on the coast. 

At the close of the last year, a small expedition for Liberia, 
was set on foot, in the western States, under the auspices and 
direction of Mr. R. S. Finley, the society's indefatigable agent. 
The vessel chartered was the schooner Crawford, Captain Taylor, 
which sailed from New Orleans, and arrived at Monrovia, after 
a long passage of sixty days, carrying out twenty-three emi- 
grants, under the care of Dr. Shane of Cincinnati. 

Dr. Todsen, the colonial physician, gave a very favourable 
account of his success in the treatment of the fever, and con- 



370 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

medicine, as a bilious fever, in the United States." He also 
said, "I think Miilsburg an excellent site for those who may- 
be disposed to cultivate the soil. At this time, where many- 
spots at Caldwell, and all at the cape are withered for want of 
rain, all is verdant and fresh about Millsburg." 

In the month of May, of the current year, (1832,) the ship 
Jupiter took her departure from Norfolk for Liberia, with one 
hundred and seventy emigrants; ninety-one of whom were 
manumitted slaves. Of these, forty-six were liberated by the 
will of D. Bradley, of Georgia; fourteenby Joseph A. Gray, Esq., 
of Halifax county, North Carolina; fourteen by Mr. Stewart, 
of Marlborough District, South Carolina; three by Dr. Wilson, 
of Smithfield, Virginia; seveu by George Reynolds, Esq., of 
Jefferson county, Virginia; and nine by Thomas 0. Taylor, of 
Powhatan county, Virginia. Of the whole number, fourteen 
were between thirty and forty years of age; thirty-one between 
twenty and thirty; and ninety-nine, under twenty years. As 
a company, they were represented to be very intelligent and 
respectable; and promised by their industry, sobriety, and good 
sense, to add strength to the colony. 

Dr. Shane, who went out in the schooner Crawford, to take 
care of the emigrants from the West, gave a very favourable 
account of the state of the colony, and the contentedness of the 
people. 

Dr. Mechlin, the colonial agent, paid a visit, in the early part 
of the year, with a view to negotiate whh the chiefs of Grand 
Bassa for the purchase of a territory at the mouth of the St. 
John's river. After a fatiguing journey he arrived at the place, 
and made the purchase on very favourable terms. The pur- 
chase-money was paid in hand, and a deed for the land obtained. 
This was an acquisition of great value, as will appear more 
clearly in the sequel. 

Hostilities had been threatened by King Brumley, but the 
prospect of war appeared to have passed away by the death 
of this old man. Soon, however, it was found that the Dey 
tribe, and some others, were combining their forces; and it v/as 
not long before acts of violence were committed on some of 
the colonists and some of the recaptured Africans, one of whom 
made his escape from them, and came to the colony, very badly 
wounded. A messenger was sent to King W^illey, to demand 
the release of those colonists and recaptured Africans, then con- 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 371 

fined in his town; but ihey treated him with contempt, and 
tore up the letter, of which he was the bearer, and told him to 
inform the agent, that they would seize and imprison every 
colonist they could fall in with. On the day following, they 
appeared on the banks of the St. Paul's, opposite Caldwell, 
blowing their war-horns, firing their muskets, and challenging 
the colonists to the combat. After a consultation, it was re- 
solved to send a company of the recaptured Africans, well 
armed, to seize on the chiefs, then assembled at Willey's Town, 
holding a palaver on the best method of attacking the colony. 
Accordingly, about one hundred recaptured Africans crossed 
the river, and took up the line of march for King Willey's Town, 
but on approaching the place, they found a large force already 
assembled, and after a little skirmishing were driven back, and 
retreated with the loss of one man. The enemy were highly 
elated by this partial success; and after barricading their town, 
they sent word to the colonists, that if they did not speedily 
meet them in the field, they would attack Caldwell, and Mills- 
burg, which they deemed themselves strong enough to destroy. 
The Dey and Gurra tribes were acting in combination, and it 
was evident, that unless effectual resistance was speedily made, 
the whole of these tribes would be in arms against the colony. 
The agent, therefore, determined to march against them at once, 
and destroy their fortified town, and give them such chastise- 
ment as would deter them from ever molesting the colony again. 
Accordingly, he left Monrovia, on the 20th of June, with part 
of the volunteer companies, under the command of Captains 
Stewart and Weaver, and part of the militia under the com- 
mand of Captain Brander. The whole force amounted to 
eighty men. They took with them also, a light field piece. 
At Caldwell, where they encamped the first night, they were 
joined by Captain Nixon's volunteer company, and a part of 
the Caldwell militia, under command of Captain Thompson, 
amounting in all, to seventy men — also the recaptured Africans, 
to the number of one hundred and twenty. These were placed 
under the command of Captain E. Johnson. The whole force 
amounted to two hundred and seventy men. They proceeded, 
the first day, to Brumley's Town, which they took possession of 
without opposition, and encamped for the night, intending, next 
day, to make an attack on their barricaded town. Next morn- 
ing the little army took up the line of march to King Willey's 



372 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Town, where it was understood the enemy had assembled in 
great force. The route from Brumley to King Willey's, was 
very fatiguing, and in many places completely obstructed by 
large trees which had fallen across the path, and which it was 
necessary to cut through and remove, before they could bring 
forward the field piece. In some places, they had to cut a way 
around obstructions which could not be removed. On account 
of these difficulties, the army was seven hours in marching ten 
miles. After the middle of the day, a heavy discharge of 
musketry gave notice that the recaptured Africans, who had 
proceeded in advance, were engaged with the enemy. The 
field piece was immediately pushed forward, and soon they 
found themselves in front of the barricade, distant only twenty- 
five or thirty yards. They immediately opened fire, and after 
a few discharges, forced the enemy to abandon their position 
in front. The pioneers now rushed forward under the cover of 
the field piece, and cut through the barricade; so that the field 
piece was pushed into the enclosure, and the town was gained: 
the enemy having escaped through the opening in the rear. 
The position was well chosen, and had it been well defended, 
must have cost great loss, before it could have been carried. 
Tlie barricade was constructed of logs, fit'teen feet in length, 
with the interstices filled with smaller logs, so as to be com- 
pletely proof against musketry. Numerous loopholes were 
left, through which they pointed their guns; and a small three- 
pounder was so placed, as to rake the approach to the town ; 
which, on the other side, was fortified by a kind of chevaux de 
frize, formed by the branches and trunks of trees cut down and 
placed on the original dense undergrowth, so as to render it 
absolutely impervious. Behind this, they had placed a strong 
force to take the assailants in flank, should they attempt to force 
the barricade. Captain Johnson, observing this, ordered his 
men immediately to fire into the ambuscades, which they did 
with such eftect as to dislodge the enemy, with the loss of seve- 
ral killed and wounded ; while those within the barricade, were 
thrown into such confusion that they fired very much at ran- 
dom, and most of the shot passed over the heads of the assailants. 
The loss of the colonists on this occasion was one killed, 
Lieut. James Thompson, who was shot while attempting to 
storm the barricade, and three wounded, two slightly, and one 
severely. On the part of the enemy there were fifteen killed, 



HISTORr OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 373 

and a great number wounded. The instigator of the war was 
sliot through the shoulder, while in the very act of applying the 
match to the three-pounder. This was a most fortunate occur- 
rence, for had this field-piece been fired, it must have carried 
destruction into the front ranks of the colonists; for it was found 
to be loaded nearly to the muzzle, with bits of iron bolts, pot 
metal, &c., and was so placed as to rake their position as they 
approached; and they were within twenty-five yards of its 
mouth, crowded together in a narrow space, so that the fire 
must have been very destructive. The battle commenced at 
half-past one o'clock, and at two o'clock the colonists were in 
possession of the town; which the recaptured Africans could 
not be restrained from firing, as they did also Brumley's Town, 
the same evening. The troops marched back to Caldwell, and 
passed the night, and then proceeded to Monrovia, where Lieut. 
Thompson was interred with the honours of war. 

It was not long before messengers arrived from King Willie and 
King Brister, to sue for peace. They acknowledged themselves 
unable to contend with the colonists, and were willing to make 
every concession and reparation, for the insults and injuries 
which they had inflicted on the colony. They were told by 
Dr. Mechlin that if the Dey Kings wanted peace, they must 
come to the Cape themselves, when the terms on which it could 
be obtained would be made known to them. Accordingly, in 
a short time the Kings, Brister, Sitma, Ba Bey or King Long 
Peter, and Kai, or King Jemmy, presented themselves. King 
Willie sent his representative Baugh, or New Peter. They 
readily agreed to the terms proposed, and a treaty of peace was 
signed the following day. 

The effects of this victory on all the native tribes was most 
salutary. They had deemed it impossible for the colonists to 
transport artillery through the dense forests of Africa. The 
determination to attack at once their fortified town, which was 
considered by them impregnable, struck them with consternation, 
and fully convinced them that they could not cope with the 
trained companies of the colony. And the distant settlements, 
established at Cape JNIount and Grand Bassa, would be much 
safer from molestation than if these events had not occurred. 

The condition of the colony in May 1S32, may be satisfac- 
torily learned from the following letter of Dr. Mechlin, the 
32 



374 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

colonial agent, which, although it repeats some events already 
mentioned, is inserted entire. 

"Liberia, May ls(, 1832. 

"Gentlemen: — In reviewing the events of the past year, we 
have every reason to be grateful for the many signal and provi- 
dential favours which our colony has experienced. No period 
since its first establishment, presents us with more abundant 
proofs of its substantial and increasing prosperity; and at no 
period have we had more cause to offer up our sincere and 
grateful acknowledgments to that Divine Being, whose good- 
ness has been so bounteously extended to this rising community. 

" Health — that greatest of blessings — has never been more 
universally enjoyed. The disease of the climate, so much 
dreaded by strangers, and to the ravages of which so many 
have fallen victims, has, by the unremitted and undivided atten- 
tion of the colonial physicians, been, in a great measure, depriv- 
ed of its terrors, and made to yield to the well-directed efforts of 
professional skill. The average number of deaths that have 
occurred among the emigrants who have arrived since the first 
of January, 1831, will not exceed four per cent. — a result not 
only gratifying, but unprecedented in the annals of the colony, 
and which cannot but reflect the highest credit on the profes- 
sional attainments of those entrusted with their medical super- 
intendence. 

" Our agriculture, the vigorous and successful prosecution 
of which is of such vital importance, and on which the pros- 
perity of this colony must ultimately depend, has received a 
new impulse, and is no longer considered of secondary impor- 
tance; the people seem now to be duly sensible of the necessity 
of devoting their energies to the advancement of this branch of 
industry, and our settlements present every where the cheering 
evidence of laudable enterprise and durable improvement. 
Most of the emigrants who arrived in the few last expeditions, 
have already the promise of their labours being rewarded by 
abundant crops. You will also be gratified to learn, that seve- 
ral of our most respectable citizens have turned their attention to 
the cultivation of coffee, a plant indigenous to the country, and 
which is every where to be met with near the sea coast, grow- 
ing in the richest luxuriance. The Rev. C. M. Waring expects 
to have a plantation of twenty thousand trees shortly comple- 
ted; and there is every reason to believe, that the influence of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 375 

SO laudable an example will be widely diffused. Cotton and 
indigo are also the spontaneous productions of our soil, and will, 
when the efforts of those possessed of a little capital shall have 
been directed to their cultivation, prove valuable articles for 
exportation, and yield to the agriculturist the highest reward 
for his labours. But unless our people entertain more enlarged 
and liberal views, I fear they will not, at least for some time, 
avail themselves of these advantages; at present, few of those 
possessed of capital are willing to embark in any enterprise 
from which they do not expect to reap great and immediate 
profits; nor can they be made to understand that by thus invest- 
ing a portion of their funds (now wholly devoted to the pur- 
poses of trade), they cannot fail of being amply recompensed, 
and eventually open to themselves great and never failing 
sources of gain. I have, however, great hopes the experiments 
now making will convince the people that they have within 
themselves the means of acquiring wealth, and will induce 
them, by a judicious employment of their time and money, 
more fully to develope the resources of the country, and render 
themselves independent of foreign aid. Articles, important in 
a commercial point of view, are produced in abundance, at no 
great distance from this settlement; but for want of sufficient 
enterprise and capital to facilitate their transportation to the 
sea coast, they must, at least for some time, remain without our 
being able to avail ourselves of the advantages afforded by their 
proximity. 

" The commerce of the colony has also partaken of the gen- 
eral improvement, and surpassed that of the preceding year. 
Within this period, fifty-nine vessels have visited our port for 
the purposes of traffic; of these, thirty-two were American, 
twenty-five English, and two French. Our exports amounted 
to one hundred and twenty-five thousand five hundred and 
forty-nine dollars and sixteen cents, and the amount of produce 
and merchandize on hand, on the 1st of January, 1832, was 
forty-seven thousand four hundred dollars. The articles of ex- 
port consisted chiefly of camwood, ivory, palm-oil, tortoise shell, 
and some gold, procured of the natives of the interior, and at 
various places along the coast. The trade with the interior has 
also been proportionably increased, and our town is now be- 
coming a place of resort for natives from the Condo country, and 
countries beyond, bordering on Foota Jallou. The Mandingoes 



376 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

also visit us in considerable numbers, and are the means of 
making us known to the nations of the interior. 

"By the provisions of a treaty lately concluded with the 
kings and chiefs of the Dey tribe, still greater facilities will be 
afforded to this branch of commerce; it being expressly stipula- 
ted in that treaty, that the natives of the interior, resorting to 
the colony for the purposes of trade, should be allowed a free 
passage through their territory. From this privilege they were, 
in a great measure, heretofore debarred, as the natives of the 
Dey country, v/ith a view wholly to monopolize the trade, 
either refused them, a passage through their country, or charged 
them such enormous duties, that few could venture to visit us. 

"It is a source of great gratification to be enabled to state, 
that the condition of our pubhc schools is highly promising; the 
report for the third and fourth quarters of the past year will 
afford satisfactory evidence of the efficiency of our present 
school regulations; and there only remains towards their com- 
pletion, that some provision should be made for the education 
of our recaptured Africans. These have been urgent in their 
request for the establishment of a free school at their settlement, 
and a want of funds has alone prevented me from acceding to 
their demand. Such an institution would, I am convinced, be 
productive of the most beneficial results; the manners and 
habits of those, at present in a semi-barbarous state, would be 
more assimilated to our own; sources of jealousy and prejudice 
would be removed, and the civilization of the neighbouring 
tribes, connected as they are by similarity of language and 
habits, with many of these people, would be rendered of com- 
paratively easy attainment. I would therefore beg leave to 
invite your early attention to this subject, and trust you will be 
enabled to obtain funds sufficient to accomplish so desirable an 
object. 

" Our relations with the surrounding native tribes have, with 
one exception, continued to be of the most amicable kind. 
The great and increasing intercourse between the colony and 
the different nations bordering on our territory, the earnest de- 
sire manifested on our part to render such intercourse mutually 
beneficial, by preserving a uniform course of justice towards 
them, and aiding in all the improvements calculated to exalt 
their condition, and impart to them the blessings of civilization, 
has done much towards the removal of all unfriendly prejudice^ 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 377 

and bound them more closely to us by the ties of interest, and 
will, doubtless, by preventing the recurrence of causes of irrita- 
tion, ensure their perfect and permanent tranquillity. 

" In the latter part of January last, availing myself of a sea- 
son of comparative leisure, I visited Grand Bassa, convened the 
chiefs, and made such arrangements with them as will secure 
to us the peaceable possession of a considerable portion of that 
fertile district. Negotiations were also entered into with the 
Kings at Grand Cape Mount, resulting in the cession to us of 
a part of that country, the possession of which has been deem- 
ed by my predecessors in office, of such vital importance. 

" The advantages to be derived from the settlement of these 
two points, have been stated in a former communication, and 
need not be repeated; but I will merely remark, that in point 
of salubrity, commercial and agricultural advantages, they are 
not surpassed by any on the whole western coast, being of easy 
access from the sea, abounding in articles of trade and subsist- 
ence, and possessing a soil, the fertility of which promises the 
richest rewards to the labour of the husbandman. We have 
every reason to congratulate ourselves on so valuable an acqui- 
sition to our territorial limits. 

"In the management of the fiscal concerns of the agency, the 
most rigid economy, consistent with the welfare of the colony, 
has been observed; yet owing to the unusual number of emi- 
grants who have arrived, the necessity of providing for their 
comfortable accommodation, the expenses consequent on the 
negotiations with the windward and leeward tribes, as well as 
those incident to the completion of such preliminary measures 
as were necessary to our occupying our newly acquired terri- 
tory, the expenditures of the past will exceed those of any pre- 
ceding year; nor can we indulge any reasonable hope that they 
will, in future, undergo any diminution: on the contrary, the 
great influx of emigrants, which the late energetic measures of 
the states of Virginia and Maryland will, in all probabilhy, 
occasion, the expense necessarily incident to our keeping up 
separate establishments at Cape Mount and Grand Bassa, as 
well as the expenses consequent upon the enlargement of our 
territorial limits, and increase of population, will swell the dis- 
bursements of the present, and proportionally increase those of 
each succeeding year. 

" The negotiations with the windward and leeward tribes for 



378 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the enlargement of our territory, the late war with the Dey peo- 
ple, and the increasing current business of the agency, occasion- 
ed by the large accessions of emigrants we have received with- 
in these few months past, have so multiplied my duties, that I 
could not, possibly, without neglecting business of pressing 
importance, make the survej^s of the neighbouring country, or 
institute the inquiries and examinations necessary to enable me 
to comply with the wishes of the Board, as expressed in the 
resolution of the 14th March, 1831. During my journey to 
Grand Bassa, I managed to ascertain the course and size of the 
principal branches of the Junk and St. John's rivers, and at the 
same time noted the quality of the soil, elevation, &c., of the 
different sections of country through which I travelled, and 
trust, at some future period, to be able to furnish you with a 
map of the colony more accurate than the one you now possess, 
and likewise give such information respecting its topography 
as will be useful and interesting. 

" I have the honour to be, most respectfully, your obedient 
servant, 

J. Mechlin, Jr." 

In a more recent communication, from the same person, 
dated July 13, 1832, information is given of the arrival of the 
Jupiter, with the emigrants, most of whom were sent immedi- 
ately to Caldwell, where they would undergo their seasoning, 
and where their lands would be allotted to them. In this letter 
he says: " The agriculture of the colony is more promising than 
ever. Many of the emigrants, who have arrived within these 
five months past, have made great improvements, and have the 
prospect of abundant crops. The mechanics have generally 
preferred residing in town, and, accordingly, have had their 
building lots assigned them." With respect to the farmers, he 
had so far changed the plan of treating them, as to assign them 
their farms as soon as they arrived, even before they were accli- 
mated ; which he supposed would, in several respects, answer 
a good purpose, especially in preventing habits of idleness. He 
mentions a visit paid to the recaptured Africans, and was 
much pleased with their settlement. The occasion of this 
visit was, that both the Eboes and Congoes had several times 
attempted to choose a chief without success: the minority re- 
fusing to submit to the choice of the majority. Dr. Mechlin 
presided at the election, and explained to their people the reason- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 379 

ableness and necessity of acquiescing in the will of the majo- 
rity, after which they appeared to be perfectly satisfied. 

"These people," says he, "occupy two very neat and well 
built villages, near the east bank of Stockton creek, and dis- 
tant from Caldwell about three miles. A small rivulet sepa- 
rates the Ebo from the Congo village. Each tribe have built, 
by voluntary subscription, and joint labour, a house of worship, 
and a town or palaver-house. Their gardens are well inclosed; 
in which are successfully cultivated, beans, cabbages, melons, 
yams, &c. These they dispose of at the Cape, in exchange for 
such articles as their necessities require. Adjacent to the vil- 
lage, but separated from it by a strong fence, are their farms, at 
present in a high state of cultivation. I saw one tract of a hun- 
dred and fifty acres planted in cassada, interspersed with patches 
of Indian corn and sweet potatoes. Their vegetables appeared 
to be very thriving, and will, without doubt, yield abundant 
crops. These people are decidedly the most contented and in- 
dependent of any in the colony, and are rapidly improving in 
intelligence and respectability. They not only raise sufficient 
for their own consumption, but have considerable surplus pro- 
duce, for which they find a ready market. When not employed 
in the cultivation of their farms, they turn their attention to the 
sawing of timber and making shingles. Many of the Congo 
tribe can read, and have established a Sunday-school, which is 
regularly attended by both children and adults; those who 
have received any education officiating as teachers to the others 
not possessed of that advantage. These, as well as the Eboes, 
are very desirous that a school shall be established among 
them." 

Two men, Messrs. Simpson and Moore, were sent out to visit 
the colony, by the free people of colour of Natchez, and to bring 
them a faithful report of the country. This was a truly judi- 
cious course to obtain satisfaction, and if pursued by others, we 
have no doubt it would tend to dissipate many unfounded pre- 
judices. These men remained but a short time, yet they made 
a good use of their time, and visited with care the upper settle- 
ments, and collected such information as would be satisfactory 
to their friends at home. They appeared to be much pleased 
with the colony; and returned home in the ship Jupiter. In 
a card published in New York, after their return, they use the 
following language: " During a residence of nearly three weeks 



380 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

in the colony, we visited the four principal settlements, in all 
which we found the colonists healthy, well pleased with their 
situation, and improving their circumstances very rapidly. A 
uniform expression of gratification, that they had found a place 
of freedom and comfort in Africa, was made without exception. 
Such was the impression on our minds of the advantages of 
emigration to this colony, that we have determined to report 
favourably of the object to the society which sent us out ; and 
as the best testimony of our full persuasion of its great advan- 
tages, have determined to settle our business and remove to 
Liberia the first opportunity. We see our brethren there, free- 
men, and advanced to the full privilege of unrestrained enter- 
prise and Christian liberty. Gloster Simpson, 

Archy Moore. 

New York, September 11, 1832." 

The history of the colony may be said to be truly eventful: 
it is made up of disasters and propitious events. The number 
of valuable hves which have been sacrificed in this enterprise 
of benevolence is indeed great; and this alone has indeed caused 
us sometimes to pause, and inquire, is the object worth such an 
expense? This question can be better answered one hundred or 
two hundred years hence. The same question might have been 
asked with as much force, when our shores were first colonized. 
If the project is successful, of which there is every reason to 
hope, there will be no hesitation in answering, that the laying 
the foundation of a great, a Christian, and a civilized republic in 
Africa, will abundantly repay all losses and sacrifices of every 
kind. When persons of exalted philanthropy die in the prose- 
cution of a noble and benevolent object, they leave behind an 
example which blesses future generations; and they themselves 
cannot be losers by exchanging this world for a better. 

These remarks have been elicited by the death of Hannah 
Kilham, a member of the Society of Friends, in England, who 
several times visited Liberia, at her own expense, with the 
view of promoting Christian education among the people. Her 
death took place at sea, on her passage to Sierra Leone, off the 
Plantain Islands, a short distance from the colony. There is in 
the African Repository for September, 1832, an excellent letter, 
which this benevolent woman wrote to her friends, after she 
had spent some time in the colony; but as it contains no new 
facts, our limits do not admit of its insertion. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 381 

Among the interesting transactions which attended the visit 
of Elliott Cresson, Esq., to Great Britain, was a long letter ad- 
dressed to him on the suhjoct of African colonization by that 
venerable philanthropist, Mr. Clarkson, who has devoted his 
Hfe to the benefit of the African race. This letter contains a 
full expression of Mr. Clarkson's favourable opinion of the 
objects contemplated by the American Colonization Society. 
Indeed, he seems to have had a distinct view of the benefits 
which would accrue from the establishment of a colony on any 
part of the coast of Africa; first, as it relates to the effect pro- 
duced upon the natives, in the vicinity ; and, secondly, in dis- 
couraging the slave-trade. And he proposes, what is now going 
rapidly into effect, the establishment of other colonies, all along 
the coast, from Sierra Leone to Cape Palmas. After expressing 
strongly his approbation of the plan, he admonishes the friends 
of colonization, that these good effects can only be expected in 
case the colonists are of good character-, and expresses a fear, 
that when emigrants should become numerous, they would not 
be such as would make industrious, and orderly citizens, in such 
a community. He also enters into a calculation to show, that 
no scheme of colonization can be expected to be so large as to 
give a hope that all the coloured people of the United States 
can be transported to Africa. 

It was during this year of general prosperity in the affairs of 
the Colonization Society, that a spirit of unrelenting opposition 
to the cause, arose from the friends of immediate emancipation; 
many of whom had once been favourers of colonization. They 
favoured it in the hope that it would sooner or later come out 
boldly in opposition to slavery; but finding that the society con- 
tinued to adhere to its original and declared principles, and that 
slaveholders were found among their most efficient patrons, they 
began to denounce the Colonization Society in language the 
most severe and vituperative. 

The leader in this hostile attack, was Mr. Garrison, who 
published a large book against African colonization, entitled, 
Garrison's Thoughts on African Colonization. Of this work, 
the editor of a paper in the city of New York, says, "the 
boldness, the magnitude, and the severity of his charges against 
the society are truly astonishing." This work seemed at 
once to arouse the feelings of many persons, who with zeal 
embraced Mr. Garrison's views; among these were found min- 



388 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

isters of the gospel, and men and women of irreproachable 
character. This was the origin of what is now called, AboU- 
tionism. Abolitionists had existed in great numbers before, 
and had formed abolition societies; but these were a peaceable 
and reflecting people, who looked at consequences, and attempt- 
ed to produce no agitation, and employed no denunciation, but 
waited for and embraced any opportunities which offered, to 
defend the liberty of such as might be illegally held in bondage. 
But the party which now arose, and which has become so pow- 
erful as to cause their influence to be felt in poUtical questions, 
and which makes adherence to their principles a test, by which 
they require candidates for office to be tried before they will 
give them their votes, are of recent origin. They have also, in 
some cases, made abolition principles a religious test, requiring 
as a term of communion, a profession of opinions in accordance 
with their own. Tlieir principles are perfectly simple, and if 
sound, will go far to authorize their action in regard to this mat- 
ter. They lay it down as their first principle, that slave-holding 
is a sin against God, in all conceivable circumstances; and, 
therefore, that immediate emancipation is, in all cases, a duty, 
without regard to consequences. Their maxim is, " mat ccelum, 
justitia fiat. " And the nercest wrath of this party was direct- 
ed against the Colonization Society, as the abettors of slavery; 
and as holding out to the slave-holder a soothing plaster to 
his conscience, by which he was kept in peace, while living in 
the practice of this crying sin; and as satisfying the moderate 
friends of emancipation, by presenting to them a delusive pros- 
pect of indirectly promoting the abolition of slavery, whilst, in 
fact, they were doing more to rivet the chains of the slaves than 
all other persons. 

Mr. Garrison's zeal was not satisfied by his written publica- 
tions in this country, but as Mr. Cresson was in England, and 
successfully winning favour to the cause there, Mr. Garrison 
determined to follow him, and counteract his influence, by pre- 
senting his own views. And the British nation, being at this 
time agitated to the centre, with their own plan of universal 
emancipation in their colonies, it is not wonderful, that many 
of the ardent anti-slavery men, were ready to fall in with Gar- 
rison's sentiments; which seemed to be more in accordance 
with the strong tide of feeling which pervaded a large portion 
of the empire, than the plan of colonization, which must of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 383 

necessity be very slow in its operation, and against which, the 
opposition of the free people of colour in tlie United States 
began to be strongly excited. These two ardent spirits, Cresson 
and Garrison, had several opportunities to exhibit their respec- 
tive schemes and views before large assemblies of British 
people, with various success. 

It was not long before a large anti-slavery society was formed 
in the United States, the centre of which was New York, and 
agents were appointed to deliver lectures, and collect funds 
for the society, and several presses were engaged to make 
the advocacy of their peculiar sentiments, their main object. 
Pamphlets also were written, and exaggerated narratives of 
cruelty to slaves, accompanied with pictorial representations, 
were not only circulated in the free States, but sent by mail, 
and in other ways, in great numbers, to the South'ern States. 

Some of the pamphlets written were of an atrocious character, 
calculated to stir up the slaves to insurrection. It is not known, 
however, that the Anti-slavery Society, or its authorized agents 
were accessary to the publishing and circulation of these incen- 
diary productions. However violent their spirit, they always 
professed an abhorrence of bloodshed and violence. Their 
own publications, however, were looked upon in the South as 
incendiary in their character, and as a blow aimed, not only 
at their domestic institutions, but at the existence of their safety 
and peace. 

Alarm and indignation spread through the southern country 
like an electric shock. In some instances lawless acts of vio- 
lence were resorted to, against persons suspected of abolition- 
ism, or found in possession of any of the books or pamphlets 
of the Anti-slavery Society. Such publications, in Charleston, 
were seized by the citizens, from the post-office, and com- 
mitted to the flames ; and as soon as the legislatures of the 
slave-holding States met, they enacted severe laws against the 
publication or circulation of any prints of the aforesaid descrip- 
tion. The effect on the people of the South, in regard to slavery, 
was the very opposite of that aimed at ; sentiments more favour- 
able to the continuance and even perpetuity of slavery, began 
now to be very commonly entertained; whereas, before, such 
sentiments were scarcely ever heard. 

The society had hitherto been remarkably happy in the good 
character and industrious habits of the emigrants, sent out to 



384 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Liberia; but towards the close of this year, 1832, we meet with 
a lamentable exception. In the brig America, one hundred and 
twenty-eight emigrants arrived at Monrovia, under the care of 
Captain Abels, Of these the colonial agent speaks in the 
following terms: "With respect to the character of the people 
composing the expedition, I regret to be compelled to state, that 
with the exception of those from Washington city, the family 
of Pages from Virginia, and a few others, they are the lowest 
and most abandoned of their class. From such materials it is 
vain to expect that an industrious, intelligent, and enterprising 
community can possibly be formed. The thing is utterly im- 
practicable, and they cannot but retard, instead of advancing 
the prosperity of the colony. Captain Abels who brought 
them out, can and will give you a more detailed and accurate 
account of their moral character, than I can possibly do, as 
they have been but a short time under my immediate notice." 

In the same despatch, the agent gives the following account 
of the colony, " I am happy to have it in my power to state, 
that the condition of our public schools is highly prosperous. 
The settlement of Grand Bassa is in progress, and should 
nothing untoward intervene, will be in full operation as soon 
as the rains have ceased. From the last advices from Mr. 
Weaver, who is there superintending the erection of buildings, 
I learned, that every thing will be ready for the reception of 
settlers in five or six weeks. He, moreover, stated that the 
principal men of the country were very friendly, and the few 
who manifested a disposition to prevent our occupying the 
country, from their being specially interested in the slav etrade, 
finding they could not intimidate us by threats, have ceased all 
opposition. The health of the colony is good, and most of 
those who arrived in the ship Jupiter have gone through their 
seasoning, but with very few deaths." 

About this time, a letter was published in the Liberator, a 
paper edited by William Lloyd Garrison, giving a very unfa- 
vourable account of the colony, and particularly contradicting 
some of the statements made to a committee of Congress by 
Mr. Devany, of which an account was given in its proper place. 
The agent seemed to think that the letter was a sheer fabrica- 
tion ; as there were no persons in the colony whom he could 
suspect of penning a statement so utterly unfounded in fact as 
this letter contained. Mr. Devany, however, judged it proper 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 385 

to answer these false statements, so far as they affected the 
answers which he had given to questions put to him at Wash- 
ington. He says: " If such a letter was written, it must have 
been by one of the most lawless of our citizens — and a friend 
only to lies and disturbance. But a citizen he was not, nor a 
person acquainted with the colony; for in his own letter he 
stated, that he had not fulfilled those obligations which consti- 
tute one a citizen of Liberia. And it is only from such aban- 
doned wretches, that Mr. Garrison appears to obtain his infor- 
mation to prejudice the good and orderly coloured people in the 
United States, against our colony. And I am sure they ought 
to be aware of it. I am not a prophet, but I feel no doubt in 
saying, that Mr. Garrison is the greatest enemy that the coloured 
people have, for he is only preparing a net for their destruc- 
tion," &c. 

In presenting to our readers the true condition of the colony, 
dependence has not been implicitly placed on the accounts of 
the agents, or colonists; but the opinion of intelligent, impar- 
tial visiters has been resorted to. Accounts of this kind have 
already been given from a number of commanders of vessels, 
to which will now be added an extract from a letter of Captain 
Crowell addressed to Mr. Gurley, the corresponding secretary 
of the society. 

"During my stay, I was daily on shore ; and although I did 
not visit the interior towns, yet I was assured by Dr. Hall and 
others, that they were even more flourishing than Monrovia; 
which, to say the least, far exceeded my most sanguine expecta- 
tions. And I would here remark, that the natural situation 
of the colony, has a very striking contrast, in my opinion, with 
that of our forefathers, who landed on Plymouth Rock, inas- 
much as the latter had the rigours of the long and tedious New 
England winters to combat, together with numerous hordes of 
hostile savages ; and far beyond the reach of any friendly power 
to alleviate their sufferings. Yet what blessings are the many 
millions of us now enjoying, as the fruit of their patient perse- 
verance ! The Liberian colonist, on the contrary, has a climate 
uniformly warm, but by no means so hot or uncomfortable as 
I was led to suppose, from the geographical situation of the 
country; the thermometer rising no higher than 83° during my 
stay; and with a very few exceptions, I am inclined to believe 
that the natives are very well pleased with the increasing growth 
33 



386 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and importance of the colony; and that no fears need be enter- 
tained of any serious encroachment from them. To these ad- 
vantages may be added that of a most rich and promising soil, 
well adapted to the culture of all the tropical productions. 

" On the Sabbath, I attended public worship at the Baptist 
church, and heard a very impressive and useful sermon from 
Mr. Waring, one of the colonists, whose hearers were numer- 
ous, and the whole service performed with that devout and 
serious attention and good order so conspicuous in the churches 
of our own country. 

" I would further remark, that during my stay, I did not hear 
a single discontented expression from any one : all with whom 
I conversed, appearing happy in their situation, and pleased 
both with the country and government." 

Numerous applications were made to the society by slave- 
holders, in several of the southern States, to know whether 
they would receive and transport their slaves, if emancipated, 
to Liberia. 



CHAPTER XXII. 



AFFAIRS OF THE COLONY IX 1833. 

As ihe philanthropists of Great Britain had set us the example 
of colonization on the coasts of Africa, it might have been 
expected, that they would have hailed with delight a similar 
enterprise, commenced by the friends of the African race, in 
America. And, at first, and to a certain extent, this was rea- 
lized ; but the reason why the English people took less interest 
in the scheme, and why Mr. Cresson met with less success in 
raising funds than might have been expected, is so candidly 
and sensibly explained in the letter of Dr. Hodgkin, that it is 
inserted entire, 

" New Broad Street, London, 7lh mo. 4tli, 1832. 

''Respected Friend:— la acknowledging the receipt of your 
diploma, making me a life member of your African Coloniza- 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 387 

tioii Society, I wish not merely to thank you for the honour 
you have done me, and congratulate you on the highly encour- 
aging and increasingly satisfactory reports received from various 
witnesses, respecting the progress of the colony of Liberia ; but 
also, to ofier a few remarks which seem called for, from me as 
a foreigner, and more especially as a British member of the 
association. 

'" The cause of the oppressed African race, has long been 
espoused by advocates, at least as numerous and as warmly 
interested on this, as on your side of the Atlantic. It might, 
therefore, be very reasonably anticipated, that a measure calcu- 
lated at once to render some compensation to those who have 
been forcibly expatriated and unjustly held in bondage, or to 
their descendants, and likewise striking at the root of the Afri- 
can slave trade, would have been hailed with general applause, 
and met with liberal support among us. My present object is 
to explain some of the reasons which have unhappily rendered 
this feeling so limited amongst us. 

"Those who, at a distance, form a judgment of individuals 
with whom they are personally unacquainted, labour under 
the great disadvantage of being led to form their opinions from 
general and sweeping observations, which though they may be 
true, as such, may be very unjust and erroneous when applied 
to particular cases. I know from very extensive observation, 
as well as from personal experience, that the national character, 
attributed to you, of entertaining a degrading contempt for the 
African race, founded, not on the reports of prejudiced travel- 
lers, but on American evidence, has been the powerful and at 
first the not altogether unreasonable cause that the friends of 
the Africans in this country have looked with some degree 
of jealousy and suspicion at the measures which you have 
adopted — They could not help regarding it as a part of that 
same system which blots your land of liberty. It is not, I 
repeat, unreasonable that the scheme of African Colonization 
should at first suffer from the prejudice which this system is 
calculated to excite. The illusion is giving way; the process 
is now slow and partial, but it will soon be rapid and general. 
I am well satisfied that the unfortunate prejudice which you 
did not excite, and which you cannot at once remove, is one of 
the many reasons in favour of your colonization in Africa. 
Though it may seem like giving way to and fostering that 



388 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

prejudice, on which account it has been objected to by many 
individuals in this country, yet it must ultimately tend to 
remove it, whilst it will have the certain and important effect 
of rendering emancipation popular amongst you. Another 
reason which may be assigned for the fact, that your laudable 
exertions have met with so little support from British funds, is 
to be found in the circumstance that although the cause of the 
oppressed African is one which obtains almost universal inte- 
rest in this country, yet very large demands having been made 
on the liberality of the public, connected with it, which seem 
to have a more direct and legitimate claim on the inhabitants 
of this realm; many who highly approve of your operations 
feel themselves excused from contributing to that which they 
consider as peculiarly yours, and for which they conceive that 
your flourishing country possesses abundant and unincumbered 
resources. I have trespassed on your time with this long 
explanation, lest some of us in this country should, like your- 
selves, be labouring under the disadvantage of having our 
views and actions misunderstood. It may also in some measure 
account for the visible results of the operations of my valued 
friend Elliott Cresson being so greatly disproportioned to the 
activity and zeal with which he is perseveringly engaged for 
the promotion of your undertaking. He has, I believe, per- 
formed more than can at once become apparent, and I trust 
that many like myself are prepared to admit the change which 
has taken place in their sentiments with respect to Liberia. 

" Before I conclude, I would offer a suggestion which I hope 
will not be attributed to impertinent interference. Though I 
am far from wishing you to compromise the success of your 
exertions by a direct attack upon the prejudices of your country- 
men, yet it is very desirable that you should not only carefully 
watch against the adoption of any act or expression which 
may be construed into a symptom that such a feeling has any 
hold amongst you, and also that you should take advantage of 
the important proofs which you are constantly producing to 
counteract it. 

"I am, with cordial good wishes for the continued prosperity 
and success of your benevolent undertaking, and unfeigned 
esteem for its supporters, thy respectful friend. 

Thomas Hodgkin, M. D." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 389 

Still, Mr. Cresson's visit to England had an important effect. 
It led many persons to correct views on the subject of Ameri- 
can colonization ; and although the benefactions there, were 
not numerous, they were liberal, and very important to the 
society in the embarrassed state of their finances. 

The sixteenth annual meeting of the American Colonization 
Society, was held in the hall of the House of Representatives, 
on the 20th of January, 1833. A very large and crowded 
assembly of the citizens of Washington, and of distinguished 
strangers from every part of the United States convened, at an 
early hour, when the Hon. C. F. Mercer, one of the vice-presi- 
dents, was called to the chair. In the beginning of their re- 
port, read at this meeting, the Board of Managers record with 
suitable expressions of sorrow, the loss of the second presi- 
dent of the society, Charles Carroll of Carollton, the last sur- 
viving subscriber to the Declaration of American Independence. 
They also noticed with suitable regret, the sudden decease of 
B. L. Lear, one of their own number, " In whose character," 
they remark, " the strictest principles of honour and integrity 
were united with the gentlest and kindest feelings of the human 
heart. The powers of his vigorous and well disciplined mind 
were ever usefully employed, and his duties, social and public, 
discharged with ardent zeal and rare fidehty. Frank and fear- 
less in the avowal of his own opinions, he considered with 
candour the opinions of others, granting to them every right 
which he claimed for himself. Firmly convinced of the im- 
portance of this society, he attended regularly at the meetings 
of the managers; cheerfully subtracting large portions of time 
from the duties of an arduous profession, and employing them 
to aid a cause that promised in his judgment, magnificent con- 
tributions to the freedom, virtue, and happiness of mankind." 

The report mentions the acquisition of valuable territory at 
Grand Bassa, and also at Cape Mount. Of the former, some 
account has already been given; of the latter, they say: "The 
territory here ceded to the society, is situated at a short distance 
from the sea, on the shore of a lake about twenty miles in 
length, navigable for small vessels, and into which flow several 
rivers, aff"ording important facilities for commerce with the in- 
terior. The chiefs of the country, who are thought to be more 
advanced in civilization than any other south of Sierra Leone, 
33* 



390 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

have granted an unquestionable title to this land, on the sole 
condition that settlers shall be placed upon it, and that schools 
shall be established for the benefit of native children. Some of 
these chiefs having obtained the rudiments of an English edu- 
cation in Liberia, expressed earnest desires that the benefit of 
instruction should be afforded to their countrymen, and the 
young men declared their purpose of submitting to the laws of 
the colony, and their willingness to make further grants of land, 
to any extent desired, whenever the terms of the present con- 
tract shall be fulfilled. The spot selected for a settlement is said 
to be healthy, and the soil capable of producing almost every 
thing of value that grows within the tropics." 

The account of the health of the colony, as given in this 
report, is exceedingly favourable. "The health of the colony," 
say the managers, "has never been better or more general, than 
during the last year. The skilful and unremitted efforts of the 
colonial physicians have been remarkably successful, and greatly 
diminished the danger to which newly arrived emigrants are 
exposed ; and there are the best grounds for hope, that more 
experience, the clearing of the lands, and the early removal of 
such emigrants to stations at some distance from the coast, will 
still further reduce the danger resulting from the influence of 
the climate." The remark of Dr. Todsen, colonial physician, 
inserted in the report, is, "that the mortality little exceeds that 
experienced in the most healthy parts of the world. Had these 
people been transported to England, or any other European 
soil, the probability is, that the number lost would have been 
equal." Again : " I have no doubt, that even emigrants from the 
north, if they be placed and provided for in a proper manner, 
may, with few exceptions, be carried safely through the fever, 
and enjoy the same health as in the United States." 

The Board had been already desirous of turning the atten- 
tion of the people more to agriculture; and in order to promote 
this object, offered premiums to such as would raise the best 
crops. These efforts were not altogether without eflect, for it 
is here reported, "that the colonists had become generally and 
deeply sensible of the primary importance of agriculture. The 
attention of several of 'the most respectable colonists has been 
turned to the cultivation of coffee, and twenty thousand trees 
had been planted by a single individual. Commerce also," 
they go on to say, "has advanced during the year, and new 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 391 

avenues for communication and trade have been opened with 
the tribes of the interior. Caravans from a considerable dis- 
tance have visited the colony, and the people of the Dey country 
have agreed to permit traders to pass without delay or molesta- 
tion, through their territories to the colonial settlements. By the 
treaty they have signed, the whole channel of trade with the 
remote tribes is left clear, which must increase greatly both 
its measure and value. During the year, fifty-nine vessels had 
visited the port of Monrovia, of which thirty-two were Ameri- 
can, twenty-five English, and two French. The exports during 
the same period, consisting chiefly of camwood, ivory, palm oil, 
tortoise shell, and gold, amounted to more than one hundred and 
twenty-five thousand dollars; their imports to eighty thousand. 
The colony is becoming known to tribes far remote from the 
coast, and Mandingo traders and others have visited it from the 
borders of Foota Jallo." 

Concerning the progress of education also, this report is very 
satisfactory. There is a general desire in the colonists for the 
acquisition of knowledge. "There are," says the report, "six 
day schools for children, and one evening school for adults, com- 
prising altogether two hundred and twenty-six pupils. The two 
female schools — one at Monrovia, the other at Caldwell — are 
attended by ninety-nine girls, and the salaries of their respectable 
teachers defrayed by a society of benevolent ladies in Philadel- 
phia. Inadequacy of funds alone has prevented the establish- 
ment of schools among the recaptured Africans, who are im- 
portunate for the means of education ; but the Board rejoice to 
learn, that the charity of the ladies just mentioned will satisfy 
the wishes of these Africans; and that, under their patronage, 
a teacher for them, of competent abilities and excellent charac- 
ter, has already sailed for Liberia. Many of these people can 
now read, and a Sunday school has been established among 
them; some of their own number acting as teachers." 

This interesting report next notices the subject of a high 
school, to prepare teachers; and also to educate men for the 
various offices in the colony. Towards such an institution, 
several valuable donations had been made; two thousand dol- 
lars by a single person, Henry Sheldon, Esq., of New York, and 
four hundred dollars by the Hon. Charles F. Mercer. The 
managers invited the attention of the liberal to this object, in 
particular. They, moreover, expressed the opinion, that Libe- 



392 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION, 

ria was now prepared to receive many more colonists in a year, 
than had heretofore been sent. " They beUeve," says the report, 
" that there is no reason to apprehend that the resources of the 
society will ever exceed the demands for aid from those anxious 
to emigrate, or the capabilities of the colony to afford accommo- 
dation and subsistence to those who may choose it as their resi- 
dence. Thus far the slowness of its growth may have been an 
advantage. But with a free government, well established upon 
the popular will; an extensive territory, easy of cultivation, and 
abundantly productive; a population, mostly sober, industrious, 
and enterprising, with schools and churches, courts of justice, 
and a periodical press; and in fine, with the ardour and resolu- 
tion of a people alive to their privileges, and determined to im- 
prove and perpetuate them, this colony now invites all worthy, 
free persons of colour to seek an asylum within its limits. 
Thousands might be safely introduced in a single year, provi- 
ded temporary buildings should be constructed, and some pro- 
vision made for their accommodation and support, during a few 
months after their arrival; and for this object, an allowance 
of fifteen or twenty dollars to each emigrant would probably 
be sufficient. Were one, or even two hundred thousand dol- 
lars entrusted to the society, it might be well expended, before 
the close of the year, in removing emigrants, and in preparing 
for larger numbers to succeed them. The experiment of Afri- 
can colonization has been successfully tried, but it remains to be 
shown, whether this work, the practicableness and utility of 
which have been demonstrated, will be sustained by a liber- 
ality, and conducted forward by a boldness and energy corres 
ponding to its magnitude and importance. So great a work, it 
is true, is not to be done in a day. But if ever to be completed, 
it is time to engage in it with a comprehensiveness and vigour 
of measures, that shall throw into shade all the past aids and 
efforts of the society. Expediency dictates that this work 
should be progressive. The number of emigrants, doubtless, 
should increase, each succeeding year: and as much must de- 
pend upon the habits of the early settlers, some selection should 
be made among those who first offer; yet the Board cannot ex- 
press too strongly, that no funds can be supplied either by indi- 
vidual charity, the States, or the nation, exceeding the amount 
required to execute this work, on a scale proportionable to its 
greatness and merits, whether viewed relatively to the inte- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 393 

rests of the country, or the still higher interests of humanity, 
which it is designed to promote." 

After giving an account of the several expeditions vi^hich had 
been fitted out for Liberia, during the year, of which notice 
has already been given in this chapter, the managers go on to 
mention a second voyage of the ship Jupiter, which before 
carried out one hundred and seventy-two emigrants. This 
vessel received on board at Norfolk, thirty-eight emigrants, 
and sailed for the colony on the 9th of November. In this 
vessel embarked, the Rev. M. B. Cox, as missionary, under 
the authority of the Society for Missions of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

Although the number of emigrants sent out, within a year, 
was so large, yet such was the urgency of the application of 
others to be sent, that the Board, in reliance upon the public 
Hberality, ventured to charter the brig Roanoke, which left 
Norfolk for Liberia, with one hundred and twenty-seven pas- 
sengers; one hundred of whom were slaves manumitted in 
Virginia, for the express purpose of African colonization. 
These last were liberally supplied with the most useful articles 
by their late owners; and, in some cases, the entire expense of 
removal was defrayed by them. These emigrants were re- 
presented as possessing, generally, unexceptionable characters, 
and some had received their freedom in consideration of their 
high moral and rehgious worth. In this vessel sailed the Rev. 
Mr. Pinney, a missionary under the patronage of the Western 
Presbyterian Board of Missions. This young man went away 
under circumstances well adapted to depress his spirits. While 
in the theological seminary, at Princeton, he and another pious, 
talented, and enterprising young man, whose name was Jos. 
W. Barr, formed the purpose of devoting themselves to the 
benefit of Africa. They were accordingly adopted by the above 
mentioned Board, and were both ordained the same evening, 
by the laying on the hands of the Presbytery of Philadelphia. 
All things being nearly ready, these two devoted brethren 
made use of the time allowed, before sailing, to visit several 
of our cities, and endeavour to stir up the dormant energies and 
HberaUty of the friends of African missions. They had no 
connexion with the Colonization Society except that they in- 
tended to make the colony, in the commencement, the centre 
of their operations. But 0! how uncertain are human hopes! 



394 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and how mysterious the Divine dispensations! Mr. Barr, who 
was a man of robust health, and had been accustomed to 
manual labour, while on a visit to the city of Richmond, Vir- 
ginia, was suddenly seized with the spasmodic cholera, and 
though he received early medical aid of the best kind, and 
the assiduous attentions of pious friends, breathed his last before 
the morning light. This was the more remarkable as this 
dreadful scourge of God, was not then prevailing in that place, 
nor in any place where he had been. Thus, Mr. Pinney bereaved 
of his bosom friend and devoted companion in the mission, 
was obliged to go alone; with what feelings may be readily 
conceived. 

During the year 1833, six vessels had sailed for Liberia, 
carrying out in all, seven hundred and ninety emigrants, two 
hundred and forty-seven of whom were manumitted slaves. 
This was by far, the largest number sent out in any one year : 
but the Board, in consequence of these expeditions, and nume- 
rous emigrants, incurred expenses, necessarily far beyond the 
income of the society. Though the end was laudable, and the 
liberality of the public ought to have furnished them quickly 
with the means of liquidating this debt, yet it may be doubted, 
whether it was prudent for the Board to run in debt for so 
large a sum, without knowing from what source it could with 
certainty be derived. They say, indeed, " that they cannot 
permit themselves to doubt, that their fellow citizens will meet 
the demands of this sacred cause, so as not only to enable the 
Board to discharge their present obligations, but also to add 
largely to the extent and energy of their operations." These 
were the sentiments of high-minded and liberal men, who were 
themselves deeply impressed with the importance of the enter- 
prise in which they were engaged. But what the public 
ought to do is one thing, and what they will do is a different 
thing. In consequence of embarrassments arising afterwards 
from the debts now contracted, the very existence of the 
society was jeoparded. 

Still, however, the progress of the society, during the year was 
great. Much strength was added to it, and its plans and proceed- 
ings were profoundly discussed and ably defended. Opposition 
had now become embodied and envenomed, and reproach and 
defiance were hurled against the whole enterprise in no gentle 
terms; but its multiplied friends stood forth calmly, but trium- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 395 

phantly, for its vindication, and bore the cause onward with 
resistless power. There can be little reason to doubt, that the 
virulent attacks of the abolitionists were upon the whole, of real 
service to the society. Before, colonization had many friends 
and well-wishers, but among them there was much apathy, 
and little energy. Public bodies, civil and ecclesiastical, very 
readily passed resolutions in favour of the objects of the society, 
but they did little more, and these recommendations had little 
effect to replenish their exhausted funds. The same was the 
case with individuals. They approved the object, and when an 
agent came round, would meet and form auxiliary societies, 
most of which became extinct almost as soon as formed, or 
rather retaining a nominal existence, remained inactive. Some- 
thing was needed to arouse and stimulate the friends of the 
cause, and this was found in the fanatical violence of the 
abolitionists; for these being entirely shut out from the south, 
vented their rage against the unoffending Colonization Society, 
which occupied an entirely different field. This society, as has 
been repeatedly said, was founded on the principle of not med- 
dling with slavery, but their object was the free people of colour, 
for whom they were desirous of providing an asylum on. the 
coast of Africa, where they could enjoy their rights and privi- 
leges, without being degraded on account of their colour, and 
mortified by the invidious distinctions which nature or preju- 
dice had produced ; and which, whether right or wrong, had 
placed an insuperable bar to their rising in this country. 

One of the most propitious events of the year, was, the 
action of the legislature of the State of Maryland on this sub- 
ject, which resulted in the appropriation of two hundred thou- 
sand dollars towards the removal to Africa of such free people 
of colour, as might be found willing to emigrate. To manage 
and direct this liberal appropriation, three commissioners were 
appointed by the legislature : but no more than twenty thou- 
sand dollars of this sum were to be appropriated in any one 
year. 

An appropriation was also made by the legislature of Vir- 
ginia, but the resolution or bill, was so expressed, that it 
proved, in a great degree, inefficacious. 

The testimony of Dr. Shane, of Cincinnati, who, as has been 
mentioned, accompanied the emigrants from the west, is as satis- 
factory, in relation to the colony, as it well could be. Writing 



396 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

from Liberia, he says: "I see here many who left the United 
States in very straitened circumstances, Uving with all the 
comforts of life around them; enjoying a respectable and useful 
station in society, and wondering that their brethren in the 
United States, who have it in their power, do not flee to this 
asylum of happiness and liberty. I am certain, no friend to 
humanity can come here and see the state of things, without 
being impressed with the immense benefits the society is con- 
ferring on the long neglected sons of Africa. 

" Nothing, rest assured, but the want of a proper knowledge 
of Liberia, prevents thousands of honest, industrious blacks, 
from rushing to this land, where liberty and religion, with all 
their blessings, are enjoyed." 

Lieutenant Page, commander of the United States schooner 
Boxer, which was ordered to the African coast for the suppres- 
sion of piracy, and who touched at Liberia, in April, 1833, in 
a letter to the Secretary of the Navy, says: "With all the ad- 
vantages that have been enumerated, it would be natural to 
expect to hear, that the inhabitants are generally contented; 
which, as far as my observation has gone, I find to be the case. 
There have been some exceptions, but they are found amongst 
characters who would be dissatisfied in any situation." 

The fourth of July collections were this year considerably 
increased above those of the past year; and some valuable 
legacies were left to the society. Of this kind, especially, was 
that of Judge Workman, of Louisiana, of ten thousand dollars. 
A thousand dollars were received from the late venerable 
Colonel Rutgers, of New York, one of the vice-presidents of 
the society. 

The Report, from which we have made so large extracts, 
concludes with the following weighty considerations: 

"The managers will offer in vindication of the society, on 
this occasion, only the following facts: 

"1st. The society was founded by the patriotic, the benevo- 
lent, and pious; and from the great community of these, through- 
out this Union, has it mainly derived support. 

"2d. The free people of colour who have sought its aid, and 
emigrated under its direction to Liberia, have, according to their 
own testimony, and the testimony of others, greatly improved 
their condition and character. 

" 3d. Through its moral influence, numerous slaves have been 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 397 

manumitted; and through its agency settled, in freedom and 
prosperity, in Liberia; while many others are now ready to be 
consigned to its care. 

"4th. No one has shown, or can show, that the public have 
experienced detriment from the plans ard proceedings of this 
society. 

" 5th. The native Africans in the vicinity of the colony, are, 
in their own judgment, greatly benefitted by its establishment: 
and disinterested strangers, who have visited them, concur in 
their opinion. 

" 6th. The practicability of the plan of African colonization, 
on a scale of vast utility, has been demonstrated, and means 
exist, all admit, for immensely enlarging its results. 

"Facts like these can be set aside by no ingenuity of specu- 
lation or of argument; they place the character of this institu- 
tion on grounds inaccessible to the boldest assailant, command- 
hig a favourable verdict of the understanding, even where they 
fail to win the heart. 

" Difference of opinion may and does exist, in regard to the 
extent in future, of African colonization. Its utility, so far as 
it may be prosecuted, is not dependent on the conclusions, how- 
ever various, formed on this subject. Omitting argument to 
sustain, the managers would simply avow, their opinion, that 
the moral and economical elements at work to promote it, and 
the influence to be relied on for augmenting their power, afford 
solid grounds for hope, if not for confidence, that it will be so 
extended as to confer invaluable blessings on at least some 
millions of our race; so extended, as in an age not distant, to 
be contemplated as among the greatest schemes ever devised 
for the good of mankind. The opinion here expressed, how- 
ever, must, by reflection on the reasons for its foundation, 
become the general opinion of our countrymen, before the 
practicableness of the scheme to the extent just mentioned, can 
be realized. 

"If to provide for and educate his children, be the duty of a 
parent, is it less clearly the duty of a nation to provide, as it 
may be able, for the relief and improvement of any unfortunate 
portion of its inhabitants, and, should uncontrollable circum- 
stances, or the public good, forbid their elevation on the soil of 
such nation, to assist them in removing to a land (if such can 
be found) where they may enjoy the means of improvement. 
34 



398 HISTORY or African colonization. 

without restraint in their use, or hmit to their advantage? And 
could the character of nations, civihzed and Christian, be more 
ennobled than by the adoption of measures, separately or in 
concert, for the instruction and reformation of the uncivilized 
and unchristian? Glory, will all after ages award to that nation, 
which, on those virtues only, that exalt individual man, shall 
build its national character. And such nation, animated by 
those moral principles that adorn and enrich our nature, must 
feel itself to be but an individual in the great brotherhood of 
nations, must recognize and acknowledge in each member of 
this fraternity, a child of the same Almighty and beneficent 
Parent, who requires the strong to support the weak; the 
enlightened to inform the ignorant; the prosperous to relieve 
the distressed; and each to embrace the common interests of all, 
within the wide circuit of its sympathies and charities. The 
triumphs of such a nation will not be over justice and mercy; 
over withered hopes and broken hearts; but over the ignorance 
that darkens, and the vice that degrades our species; they will 
be sounded forth, not in the trumpet notes of war, but cele- 
brated in processions and songs of peace. Such triumphs are 
the people of the United States now invited to achieve. To 
them, especially, are the interests of the African race by Provi- 
dence entrusted, and a thousand voices plead, that the high and 
solemn duty resulting therefrom, be faithfully and fully dis- 
charged. 

"In conclusion, the managers would remind the general 
meeting, that Liberia, unlike most other colonies, has been 
founded, not to extend the power or enrich the commerce of 
our country ; not to bind in vassalage those who resort to it, or 
reduce to deeper than their present degradation the uncivilized 
of Africa, but to stand, within the precincts of barbarism, a 
citadel of freedom, knowledge and Christianity ; to bring a rude, 
deeply injured, and miserable people under the dominion of 
equal laws and a pure religion, and thus enable them to appre- 
ciate the dignity and add to the honours of humanity." 

The pecuniary wants of the society, in consequence of the 
large number of emigrants sent out during the last year, were 
exceedingly pressing, and no effectual measures were adopted 
to relieve them. They had, indeed, popular agents in the field; 
but while their influence was great in extending the society, 
their collections were, for the most part, small. 



HISTORr OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 399 

The Auxiliary State Colonization Society of Massachusetts, 
appropriated six hundred dollars for the support, daring a year, 
of two coloured teachers in the colony; also four hundred dol- 
lars for the erection of a suitable house for the school, to which 
they gave the name of the Massachusetts Free School in Li- 
beria. 

The munificent bequest of Judge Workman, of Louisiana, of 
ten thousand dollars, has already been mentioned; to which may 
be added the bequest of W. H. Ireland, Esq., late of the same 
State, which, when the property shall be sold, it was supposed 
would amount to as large a sum as that of Judge Workman. 
This Mr. Ireland was a most respectable citizen of New Or- 
leans, who, by industry and economy for several years, had 
acquired a large property. Most of his slaves he, by his last 
will, liberated on condition that they should emigrate to Liberia. 
The following testimony from the editor of the Baltimore 
American, who had no connexion with the Colonization So- 
ciety, deserves to be recorded. 

" The expedition which lately sailed from this port for Liberia, 
with emigrants, has attracted my attention, both on account of 
colonization in Africa, now in successful progress, and the cha- 
racter of the coloured people who composed the company that 
embarked in the ship Lafayette. Satisfied, as I am, of the 
great, the almost incalculable advantage that will be derived by 
those who avail themselves of the means of transportation now 
offered them, I was gratified to find men of merit and intelli- 
gence embarking to reap the fruition of a plan of benevolence, 
where worth, not colour, will determine their rank and standing 
in society. Among them was a coloured man, in spite of preju- 
dice, I will say gentleman, returning from a visit of a few months 
to the United States— I mean Jacob W. Prout, formerly of Bal- 
timore, but for the last eight or ten years a citizen of Liberia. 
He affords a happy instance of the effect of freedom on a sound 
mind. While he fully sustained the character belonging to him 
as a citizen of a free State, he was unassuming in his intercourse 
with the white, and attentive and courteous to the coloured 
people, with whom he freely associated; and thus, by a de- 
meanour unpretending and modest, he conciliated the good will, 
and has carried with him the good wishes of both. I view him 
as affording a dem.onstration of the fact heretofore questioned, 
and said to exist only in the excited imaginations of enthu- 



400 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

siasts — that freedom confers elevation of character without 
reference to colour." 

By the ship Lafayette and brig Ruth, despatches were re- 
ceived by the Board at Washington up to the 21st of February, 
1833. The emigrants, by the Hercules, the Roanoke, and the 
Lafayette, had arrived in safety. 

The colonial agent had been severely ill, in consequence of 
exposure in a canoe at sea, in returning from a visit to Grand 
Bassa, where he had gone to make a purchase of a valuable 
territory on the south side of St. John's river. This territory 
has already been mentioned, and it will only be necessary to 
add in this place, that it contains from one hundred and fifty 
to two hundred square miles, and includes the chief town of the 
principal chief, who wished to be included within the purchased 
territory. The value of this land is enhanced by the excellency 
of its timber, said to be the best in all the colony; and also by 
containing some valuable mill-seats. The settlement com- 
menced here was, at this time, in a prosperous state, and 
opened a new and interesting field of enterprise to emigrants. 

Complaints began to be heard from the newly arrived emi- 
grants, of a want of cordiality and kindness towards them from 
the early colonists; the evidence of which was, the unwhole- 
someness. of the provisions issued to them. The managers 
supposed that there might be some ground for these complaints, 
and resolved to send out ample supplies of provisions for the 
supply of the recent emigrants, and adopted measures which 
they hoped would be effectual to prevent a recurrence of similar 
complaints. 

The Liberia Herald continued to be edited by Mr. Russ- 
wurm, and was in every view a respectable paper. As a 
specimen of editorial remarks, the following extract from an 
article on the new year is inserted: "But while we have been 
attending to those things which affect our outward comfort, the 
intellectual wants of our rising generation have not been passed 
by unnoticed. Schools have been established in our different 
settlements, and eftorts are making to raise the means for 
another, among our recaptured Africans. Have we rich friends 
in America, who feel willing to aid the cause of God and man, 
by dispelling the moral darkness around us? Spare a little of 
your abundance toward the cause of education among our 
recaptured Africans, and the blessing of hundreds will descend 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 401 

upon you. With the increased means of the society, more 
attention has been paid to the comfort of new-comers; and, 
during the past year, three extensive buildings have been put 
up solely for their accommodation. Within the year past, our 
colony has also extended her limits, and so securely do the emi- 
grants to Grand Bassa consider themselves located, that most 
of them have sent for their families, who left this a few days 
ago in the Margaret Mercer, for that settlement. 

"We should consider ourselves as a peculiarly favoured 
people, for even now, while the demon of disunion is about to 
enter among the confederate States of our native land, we 
have been spared from any thing of that kind. Our commerce 
has been extending, and our infant colony becoming more 
known to the civilized world. The very name of Africa, 
hitherto has been a terror to mankind, but we thank God, 
there is one spot in it, on which the eye of philanthropy can 
rest with pleasure, as the workmanship of its own hands; 
one spot to which the weary wanderers of the ocean can 
repair for refreshment and health." 

The discovery in the preceding year of the course and 
embouchure of the Niger, by the Landers, is an event of much 
interest for central and western Africa. The solution of this 
long doubtful, and much contested problem, has afforded much 
gratification to the lovers of geographical science; and has 
opened a new world for commercial enterprise, and a new 
field for missionary and colonizing efforts. The event as 
discovered corresponds very exactly with the conjectures of 
Malte Brun, and other distinguished geographers. And as 
the mouth of the river is at no great distance from the eastern 
settlements of Liberia, the discovery may be considered as an 
event highly propitious to the colony. 

The Colonization Society having now become the object of 
virulent abuse, this aroused in its defenders a zeal in its vindi- 
cation, which, without such opposition, would probably have 
lain dormant. Among the able defences of the society, was a 
speech of Judge Test, of Indiana, and reviews in the Biblical 
Repertory, and the Methodist Quarterly Magazine. The Rev. 
Joshua N. Danforth, one of the general agents of the Board, 
published a letter, written with great force. It is doubtful 
whether, on the whole, the Anti-slavery Society did not do the 
Colonization Society more good than harm, by the bitterness of 
34* 



402 HISTORY OP AFniCAN COLONIZATION. 

its denunciation: for while it drew off some warm and efficient 
friends, it was the occasion of bringing others equally efficient 
into the field. Among those who abandoned the society, 
was Arthur Tappan, Esq., of the city of New York, who had 
been an active and munificent friend. His new views are 
given to the public, in a letter to a student in the Andover 
Seminary; but it is difficult, in what he says, to find any 
sufficient reason for totally abandoning the society. He seems 
to have caught Mr. Garrison's spirit, by reading the Liberator; 
and, therefore, he does not hesitate to say, that it is his belief, 
" that this splendid scheme of benevolence" was a device of 
Satan, to rivet still closer the fetters of the slaves, and to deepen 
the prejudice against the free coloured people. "I now believe," 
says he, "that it had its origin in the single motive, to get rid 
of the free coloured people, that the slaves may be held in 
o-reater safety. Good men have been drawn into it, under the 
delusive idea, that it would break the chains of slavery and 
evangelize Africa; but the day is not far distant, I believe, 
when the society will be regarded in its true character, and 
deserted by every one who wishes to see a speedy end put to 
slavery in the land of boasted freedom." Mr. Tappan's prin- 
cipal objection was, that ardent spirits, tobacco, powder, and 
lead, had been imported into the colony. The answer to these 
objections, by Mr. Gurley, was entirely satisfactory. 

Canada having been found an uncongenial climate for Afri- 
cans, Texas began to be talked of by the enemies of Liberia. 
Though the arguments of the anti-colonization men were often 
directed against colonization in general ; yet when Hayti, or 
Canada, or Texas, could be set up in opposition to the colony 
in Africa, these places were advocated by them, as entirely 
preferable to Liberia. 

The Rev. Mr. Pinney, already mentioned, as a missionary 
to Africa, arrived at Monrovia, and his first impressions of the 
country may be learned from the following extract from a letter 
from him, dated February 17, 1833. 

"■Bear Sir, — We have arrived safely and happily at the home 
of the oppressed, where freedom spreading her broad mantle, 
invites the injured sons of Africa to liberty and happiness. 
The verdure is beyond expression delightful. Cape Mount 
seemed a paradise, when first seen last Sabbath morning, as 
one peak after another was discovered to us by the ascending 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 403 

mist; and Cape Mesurado distant only half-a-mile from our 
anchorage, though very rocky, presents nothing but the deepest 
luxuriance of vegetation: no rock appears except at the ex- 
treme point, where the retiring surf exposes enough to assure 
us that it is there. The white beach between the two capes, 
a distance of fifty miles, is a beautiful line separating the dark 
green waters from the still deeper vegetation ; which resembles 
very much the appearance of the coast presented in entering 
Charleston harbour. Numerous palms lift their lofty heads 
all along the shore, high above the surrounding forests, resem- 
bling our pines trimmed almost to the top. Natives dressed in 
nature's garb, in light shelly canoes, as strange as themselves, 
are all around us. It is impossible to describe my sensations 
at beholding these human beings, representing I suppose, 
fairly, more than as many millions, when they came on board 
our vessel just before we anchored in view of Monrovia, on 
Sunday evening, without even a 'fig leaf covering— seeming 
scarcely to have made a single step towards civiHzation, and 
probably still less towards godliness. They were Kroomen, 
said to be the noblest and most honest of all the seaboard 
tribes; their business is to row the boats in loading and unload- 
ing vessels. Captain Hatch has engaged fifteen, and I am 
now more accustomed to their appearance. When on board 
the ship, they wear a small piece of cloth around the loins. 
They are of a dark red colour, something like a ripe English 
cherry. The governor received me with much politeness to- 
day, and invited me to dinner, which from my circumstances, 
I declined acceding to. The town consists of houses thinly 
scattered here and there on lots as they have been drawn by 
colonists. From being but partly built, and there being no 
horses or carts to wear a road, the streets have little the 
appearance of a regular town, and from the luxuriance of 
vegetation, every spot not under cultivation or continual use, 
is covered with weeds and bushes. Yet it is much pleasanter 
than I had anticipated. The air is cool and pleasant, and I was 
quite surprised to observe cloth coats worn by all the most 
respectable inhabitants. Governor Mechlin informed me that 
when he travels he wears his coat and overcoat, and lies down 
any where in them. The buildings are well calculated for 
coolness, having no fire-places, and being quite open. Those 
of the colonists whom I saw, received me with great politeness, 



404 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and were dressed very genteely. I think I shall like Africa, 
and from all accounts, the fever is not commonly more severe 
than many intermit tents in America. It is a complete fever 
and ague, and in most cases I am informed is light." 

Among the zealous defenders of the Colonization Society in 
the western States, we find J. G. Birney, Esq., a gentleman of 
liberal education, and considerable brilliance of talent, who had 
stood high in civil life; but who now was willing to devote his 
time and talents to the advancement of the cause of African 
colonization. He, therefore, accepted of an agency for the 
south-western States. Upon entering on this office, Mr. Birney 
published in the public prints of all these States, a number of 
short essays, on the subject of colonization, which were exten- 
sively circulated both in the north and the south, by being 
transferred to the columns of many papers. These letters are 
preserved in the African Repository for August, 1833. And 
although this gentleman soon afterwards changed his views, 
and has been, ever since, the determined opposer of the Colo- 
nization Society, and one of the ablest and most zealous and 
active advocates of the principles of the Anti-slavery Society ; 
yet this does not hinder but that these letters may still be read 
with profit. And although he has long repudiated all that he 
has written in defence of African colonization, he would still 
find it difficult to give a refutation of his own former argu- 
ments. 

The enemies of the Colonization Society were not contented 
to confine themselves to argument and declamation, against 
the principles of the society, but they industriously and insidi- 
ously attempted to bring the colony into disrepute, by having 
recourse to slander and misrepresentation. They availed them- 
selves of an opportunity to catechise, at great length and 
minuteness, certain coloured persons who had been sent out 
from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, to examine the country 
and state of the colony: and in giving an account of the infor- 
mation received from these men, great unfairness was employed. 
One of the persons thus catechised and misrepresented, Mr. 
James Price, of Washington city, upon seeing the account of 
the examination of himself and others, came out in the public 
papers, whh a positive denial of the truth of the account which 
had been published in the Emancipator. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 405 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

FORMATION OF THE MARYLAND SOCIETY. 

The Maryland Colonization Society, after mature deliberation, 
determined to act independeri'ily of the national society, and to 
found a colony of their own, at Cape Palmas, on the African 
coast. The reasons for adopting this important measure, are 
given at large in the Second Annual Report of the Maryland 
Colonization Society. In this measure no hostility to the 
American Colonization Society was intended; nor did it arise 
from any dissatisfaction with the proceedings of that excellent 
institution; but it was believed, that in Maryland, much more 
could be accomplished by independent, separate action, than 
by remaining associated with the national society; especially, 
as the legislature of the State was disposed to act in coopera 
tion with the State Society, and had already made a large 
appropriation of money for carrying the plan into effect. Bat 
this united action of the State with the society could not be 
expected, unless the latter acted independently of all societies 
out of the State. It was judged also, that the several States 
in which slavery existed, having the sole right of regulating 
or removing this system, could act in relation to this matter 
according to their own discretion: and if any particular State 
was convinced that slavery was a political evil, and ought, as 
soon as practicable, to be abolished, such State might prosecute 
this object in connexion with the colonization society of the State, 
without being restricted by the constitution of the American 
Colonization Society, which very wisely does not propose the 
abolition of slavery, as any part of the direct object of the 
society; but confines its views solely to the free people of 
colour. 

The legislature of the state of Maryland, were so fully con- 
vinced that the gradual abolition of slavery would be a national 
blessing, provided the slaves, as fast as liberated, should be 
removed to Africa, that they did not hesitate to propose this as 



406 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the great object at which they aimed in patronizing the coloni- 
zation of the people of colour. And the Colonization Society 
of Maryland, entertaining the same views with the legislature, 
resolved to form themselves into an independent society, that 
without restraint, and with the powerful cooperation of the 
State, they might prosecute this important object. They also 
were desirous to establish a colony more devoted to agricul- 
ture, than the one at Monrovia, the attention of which has 
been chiefly directed to commerce : and as the traffic in ardent 
spirits in the latter colony had furnished its opponents with one 
of their most plausible objections, it was determined to make 
this a temperance colony, by not only forbidding all trade in 
this article, but by requiring every emigrant to agree to abstain 
entirely from the use of ardent spirits. 

While it cannot be doubted that the reasons for this inde- 
pendent action of the Maryland society are very strong, and 
we may say, convincing, yet it cannot be denied that the 
measure operated very injuriously to the interests of the Ameri- 
can Colonization Society, by withdrawing from it many of its 
most efficient members, and lessening its resources at a lime 
when it was exceedingly embarrassed with a debt, which had 
accumulated to such a degree, as to threaten the prosperity, if 
not the very existence of the society. And therefore it will not 
appear surprising, that the managers of the American Coloni- 
zation Society, although they did not oppose the design of 
the Maryland Society, yet consented to it with evident reluc- 
tance. It was feared, that if the example should be imitated in 
other States, the national society would be left without a 
sufficient number of auxiliaries to sustain it. And, indeed, 
for some time, the prospects of the parent society were very 
discouraging, and her foreign operations almost ceased. 

The Maryland Society, in their Third Annual Report, ex- 
press a strong persuasion of the wisdom of the plan which they 
had adopted; and go so far as to say, "that upon its success, 
now depends, in a great degree, the present efficient operation 
of the grand scheme of American colonization. Maryland, 
through her State society, is about trying the important experi- 
ment, whether by means of colonies on the coast of Africa, 
slave States may become free States. " For this purpose," say 
they, "was the idea of colonization first promulgated; and for 
this purpose has there been that expenditure of life and money, 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 407 

which has resulted in demonstrating the practicabiUty of found- 
ing settlements of the coloured people of the United States in 
their fatherland. If Maryland, with so many circumstances 
operating in her favour, — with a coloured population that does 
not increase — with a prevailing sentiment among her people 
adverse to the perpetuation of slavery within her borders — 
with legislative action lending its powerful and efficient aid, — 
if Maryland, thus situated, cannot succeed in the experiment, 
other States may well despair, and the friends of the cause 
through the land may well be disheartened," 

While we cannot but approve of the Maryland enterprise, as 
one of great importance in the history of African colonization, 
we cannot approve of the sentiment here expressed, that the 
success of the whole scheme of colonization was involved in 
the success of this State society. Our belief is, that this plan 
has the marked approbation of heaven, from its commence- 
ment; and that, however many disasters and disappointments 
may be experienced, it will continue to prosper, and will ulti- 
mately so prevail, as to exhibit to posterity the successful issue 
of the grandest enterprise of the present age. 

The ^laryland Society having determined on forming a sepa- 
rate colony in Africa, on the 23d of November, 1S33, despatched 
the brig Ann, Captain Langdon, from Baltimore, with a full 
cargo of goods and provisions, and eighteen emigrants for Cape 
Palmas. The expedition was under the charge of Dr. James 
Hall, a gentleman whose experience in Africa^ admirably quali- 
fied him for his situation. The Rev. John Hersey accompanied 
him, as his assistant; and the Rev. Mr. Wilson and JNIr. Wyn- 
koop, agents for the American Board of Commissioners for 
Foreign Missions, took passage in the Ann, with a view of 
ascertaining the fitness of Cape Palmas as a place for mis- 
sionary labours. 

On the 25th of January, the Ann reached INIonrovia, and 
remained there ten days, taking on board thirty old settlers, 
nineteen of whom were adult males, well acclimated. 

On the 5th of February, the brig reached Bassa, and re- 
ceiving five more recruits, sailed for her ultimate destination. 
Dr. Hall having sent word to the kings in the vicinity of Cape 
Palmas, of his wish to establish a colony at that place, when 
he arrived, found them ready to treat with him. 

On the 13th of February, a grand palaver, or council, was 



408 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

held, at which the only difficulty arose out of Dr. Hall's refusing 
to make rum a part of the consideration of the proposed pur- 
chase. "His ISIaster," he told them, "did not send him there 
to giv^e rum for the land. Rum made the black man a fool, and 
then the white man cheated him. He came as a friend, to do 
them good — not as an enemy, to hurt them." After much dis- 
cussion, and explanation, on the part of Dr. Hall, the purchase 
was completed for a quantity of trade goods fully satisfactory 
to the natives. The kings reserved to their people the use of 
their villages and fields, included within the boundaries of the 
territory contracted for; and stipulated that, within a year, a free 
public school should be established in each of the principal 
towns. This treaty was dated February 13, 1834, and was 
signed by Parmah, King of Palmas, Weah Boleo, King of 
Grahway, and Baphro, King of Grand Cavally. 

Without delay, operations were commenced; and the brig, 
after landing her passengers and cargo, returned to Bassa and 
Monrovia for further recruits. The Board had sent out the 
frame and materials of an agency house, which was speedily 
erected, and in less than a month after landing, the settlement 
began to wear the appearance of a compact and comfortable 
village. Messrs. Wilson and Wynkoop, after remaining at the 
cape long enough to satisfy themselves of the eligibility of the 
site for a missionary station, returned to Monrovia, and thence 
to America. Mr. Hersey, after seeing a meeting-house erected 
for the worship of the jNIethodists in the company, also returned 
to this country. 

Dr. Hall now found himself, with about eighty emigrants, in 
the midst of thousands of savages; he therefore set to work to 
erect a fort, which should fully command the native town of 
Cape Palmas and two small towns on the beach, as well as the 
landing place. In this short time, thirty-seven lots were occu- 
pied, and the gardens already supplied the emigrants with 
vegetables. At the end of four months, the people had all gone 
through the fever of the climate, without the loss of a single 
individual. The testimony of INIessrs. Wilson, Wynkoop, and 
Hersey, respecting the healthiness of the climate, is very fa- 
vourable. 

Upon the return of the brig Ann, with so favourable an ac- 
count of the situation of the colony, the Board immediately 
despatched another vessel from Baltimore, the Sarah and Pris- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 409 

cilia. On her arrival at the Cape, she found the colony in an 
excellent condition, and Dr. Hall well furnished with the means 
of subsistence, which he had husbanded from the stores brought 
out by the former vessel. Every body in the colony appeared 
to be in good health, and none more so than Dr. Hall himself, 
who had been long an invalid. The emigrants were generally 
well satisfied, and there was as little discontent as could be ex- 
pected among persons who had to subdue the forest, and erect 
houses for their own accommodation. 

The Board without waiting for the return of the Sarah and 
Priscilla, despatclied, on the 14th of December, 1834, the brig 
Bourne, with fifty-eight emigrants, and supplies corresponding, 
for the Cape. This expedition was placed under the imme- 
diate charge of the Rev. Mr. Gould, of the Methodist church; 
a man who had long laboured for the good of the coloured 
population in Maryland. This agent did not go out with the 
design of making a permanent residence in Africa; but staid 
long enough to see the emigrants comfortably disposed of. A 
short time before the sailing of the Bourne, the Rev. Mr. Wil- 
son, with his wife, and several teachers, had sailed for Cape 
Palmas. The frame of a house for a missionary establishment 
had been carried out in the brig Ann, which was found, upou 
his arrival, ready for his use. The presence of Mr. Wilson at 
the colony was considered very important, in case of any acci- 
dent to Dr. Hall; for though entirely disconnected with the 
Board of Managers, yet all the new settlers at Cape Palmas 
had a common interest; and few men were better calculated to 
give prudent counsel than JNIr. Wilson. "To profound piety 
he joined firmness of character, and sound judgment, and dis- 
cretion, together with manners admirably calculated to win his 
way to the hearts of this rude people, to whom he had devoted 
his existence."* 

The American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions 
had assumed the responsibility of supplying the natives whh 
such free schools as had been stipulated for, in the treaty by 
which the territory was conveyed to the society, which re- 
heved the Board of a considerable expense, which otherwise 
must have been incurred by them. 

Each of the three kings, who signed the treaty by which the 
land was ceded, agreed to send a son to the State Society, to 

* Third Annual Report, p. 9. 
35 



410 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

be educated in the arts of civilized life. The son of the King 
of Palmas was taken sick on his way to the vessel and remain- 
ed behind; so that only two embarked, viz., Charles, the son of 
the King of Grahway, and John, the son of the King of Caval- 
ly. These boys arrived safely in Baltimore, and every thing 
was done by the Board, which conld be done, to promote their 
improvement. They were immediately sent to school, and 
made rapid progress in learning. But on the 16th of Novem- 
ber, 1834, Charles took sick and died. During his illness he 
received every needed attention in the family of the local agent, 
where he boarded. And as this event might make an unfa- 
vourable impression on the minds of the natives, it was thought 
expedient to send back the other boy to his parents, who could 
give such an account of their treatment here, as it was hoped 
would be satisfactory to all, and especially to the father of the 
deceased boy. 

The formation of the IVIaryland Society, having the gradual 
abolition of slavery in the State, as the direct primary object 
of its institution, it was believed that, if its principles were made 
known to the people of New England, it would have the 
effect of checking the abolition spirit, which had begun to per- 
vade that country; or rather, would turn it into a safe and bene- 
ficial channel, and might secure considerable funds for the Ma- 
ryland Colonization Society. Under these impressions, Messrs. 
John and Robert Breckinridge, both ardent friends of coloniza- 
tion, but, at the same time, friends to the gradual abolition of sla- 
very, undertook a journey through the Eastern States, to make 
known the principles, and to plead the cause of the Maryland 
Society. Two more ardent, eloquent, and efficient agents could 
not have been found. They passed through the principal north- 
ern cities, accompanied by the local agent of the Board; and at 
New Haven, were joined by the Rev. Leonard Bacon, an emi- 
nent friend of the cause, who lent them his powerful and efficient 
aid. And although they did not remain long enough to make 
their northern visit profitable, in a pecuniary point of view, it 
is believed, that they made a deep and favourable impression, 
which will be useful to the society hereafter. 

Although, as has been intimated, the withdrawal of the State 
Society of Maryland could not but be felt by the parent society 
as a severe blow to its interests; yet that noble institution, with 
a generosity becoming the benevolent cause in which it was 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 411" 

engaged, opposed no obstacle in the way of the new enterprise, 
and continued to cultivate a friendly feeling towards the Mary- 
land Society; and this feeling was duly appreciated by the 
Board of Managers of the State Society. In the close of their 
third report, they observe, that " the relations of the Board 
with the American Colonization Society are, it is believed, of 
the most friendly character. Although the State Society acts 
independently, yet the community of purpose between the two 
institutions, must ever unite them in a bond which it would be 
diflicult to break, and which the Maryland Society should be 
the last to see weakened. It is to the disinterested labours of 
the philanthropic members of the American Board, that the 
State Society is indebted for the confidence, which has led them 
to send forth a little band of emigrants, to gain another foot- 
hold on the Liberian coast; to erect there a beacon, glorious 
alike in the sight of the native, and the African emigrant; as it 
speaks to the one in the language of civilization and the gospel, 
and calls to the other to come to his father's home."* 

The following extracts from a communication of Dr. Hall 
to the Board of Managers, will serve to give some idea of the 
territory purchased for the society, and named, New Mary- 
land. Speaking of Sheppard Lake, he says, "This lake is a 
beautiful sheet of clear water, upon an average half a mile 
in breadth, extending from the site of the mission house, about 
eight miles parallel to the sea-beach; and, in some places, 
separated only by a wall of sand thrown up by the surf, of not 
more than fifty yards in breadth. At the narrowest place, the 
natives, once or twice in the year, dig a trench below the sur- 
face of the lake, and it soon discharges its waters into the sea, 
leaving an immense quantity of fish of all kinds, which are 
gathered up by all the tribes in the vicinity, and smoked in 
great numbers. The sea very soon fills up the breach thus 
made, and the lake is again replenished by the rains and small 
creeks. 

"The King of Grahway has three towns, one of which is 
very large, where he resides. I left Grahway, accompanied by 
the king and several head men. On leaving Grahway, I entered 
one of the most beautiful meadows I ever beheld, from one to 
two miles in breadth, extending a distance of nearly five miles. 
It was literally covered with fine fat cattle, sheep and goats, 

* Third Annual Report, p. 12. 



412 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

belonging to the neighbouring towns. When within a mile or 
two of Half-Cavally, we were met by not less than a thonsand 
men, women, and children, in whose countenances nothing but 
wonder and astonishment were visible. 

"The town, or rather towns, of Half-Cavally, are very large, 
containing over fifteen hundred people, who are supported 
principally by trading with the Bush people. From this to 
Cavally river, a distance of eight miles, as near as I could 
judge, I took what is termed the Bush path, and it carried 
me through a delightful country, the greater part of which 
is included in our purchase. The surface is gently undulating 
and covered with a quick growth of small wood, the whole 
having been cleared for rice and cassada; and we passed 
many fields of these vegetables, which are the main articles 
of food in this country. To an enthusiastic admirer of na- 
ture, nothing could be more delightful than a stroll along 
the borders of these beautiful fields, winding occasionally 
among almost impervious clusters of young palm trees, whose 
spreading branches excluded every ray of the scorching sun; 
then opening suddenly upon an immense rice field of the 
most delicate pea-green, skirted by the beautiful broad-leafed 
plaintain and banana, literally groaning under the immense 
masses of their golden fruit — I say, to such a one, this jaunt 
would have been enchanting," &c. There seems to be some- 
thing like romance in the above description, but no doubt 
there is some foundation for such high coloured description in 
the actual scenery. 

Of the river Cavally, Dr. Hall speaks as follows: "This is 
a splendid river, nearly a mile in width, running with great 
velocity into the sea, perfectly fresh, even to its mouth. It 
could be entered by vessels of two hundred tons, or more; but 
it comes down with such force, that meeting the tide, it causes 
immense breakers, which prevent boats and canoes from pass- 
ing, except in the dry season. * * * From the best 
information I can gain, I would say the Cavally river is navi- 
gable for schooners of twenty tons, to the distance of fifty miles. 

"I arrived at Grand Cavally, the town of our liege subject, 
King Baphro, about two o'clock, p. m., and was received with 
all the attention I could expect. This town is situated at the 
river's mouth, and has a fine landing, inside the bar, but the 
beach land is bad, owing to the heavy surf, there being no rock 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 413 

or curvature in the coast line, sufficient to break the swell. I 
should think the town contained a thousand inhabitants, but I 
may overrate them, as the bustle was so great. * * * The king 
speaks good English, has a perfect knowledge of trade, and 
manages all matters like a man of business. His person is 
worth noticing: he is about six feet four, well proportioned, 
and very muscular; and has a firm and determined expression 
of countenance, bordering too much on the savage. His word 
is law, and one look from his deep sunken eye, commands 
instant obedience from all. * * * The land on either side the 
river is sufficiently elevated, the soil rich and easily cultivated. 
The whole is well wooded and watered, with few or no fens or 
swamps, so common on the sea-coast; the surface generally 
slightly undulating, and covered in some places with a second 
growth of timber at intervals, however spreading into most 
luxuriant and extensive savannahs, equalling in richness and 
beauty the far famed plains of Leogane, in the island of Hayti. 
In fact, the whole extensive tract of country, now belonging to 
the Maryland State Colonization Society, so far as I have been 
able to examine it, very nearly resembles the low lands of that 
beautiful island. 

" The land in our immediate neighbourhood is not so fertile 
as that more remote, but I think it advisable to lay out the 
first township bordering on the beach, and this we extend to the 
interior, as I consider it of great importance to have the whole 
colony connected, that we may have good roads from one end 
to the other. With very little trouble and expense we can 
have the best roads, surpassed by none in America, a thing 
very uncommon in African settlements. 

" The present productions of our colony are rice, cassada, 
banana, sweet potatoes, sugar cane, the egg plant, bahia, some 
excellent varieties of the pea, Guinea and Malaga pepper, many 
varieties of the prune and fig. These are all produced and 
cultivated by the natives in great abundance; and to them 
may be added all the garden and field vegetables, such as, 
beans, peas, turnips, Indian corn, squashes, beets, carrots, 
parsnips, cabbage, onions, melons, lettuce, cucumbers, and 
tomatoes. 

"As it regards animal food, we are equally well supplied. 
There is no part of the coast which furnishes such beef; and 
35* 



414 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

I never saw so fine in any tropical country, nor any more fat, 
even in the Boston market. 

" In this our purchase, we have every national advantage 
possible to favour the promotion of agriculture, and we only 
require industry, proper guidance and direction, to render this 
a wealthy and flourishing colony. The labour of one man in 
good health, six months in the year, will produce yegetables for 
six adults, and in greater abundance and variety, than the 
average farmers in New England enjoy. 

" Of the articles, which our climate will enable us to raise for 
exportation, the most prominent are palm oil, sugar, molasses, 
coffee, cotton, and tobacco. Now the question is, which ought 
to be recommended to the colonists for cultivation? Doubtless 
the sugar cane is best adapted to our soil, and would yield 
the greatest profit, but its cultivation by the emigrants at 
present, I consider entirely out of the question. The coffee 
tree does not grow spontaneously here as at Bassa and Cape 
Mesurado, but would do well were it introduced. But taking 
all circumstances into consideration, I consider cotton and 
tobacco as decidedly the best articles for new emigrants to 
commence with. The palm tree grows spontaneously, in all 
the varieties of soil in our territory, and apparently with equal 
luxuriance on the sandy beach as in the fattest valleys. In 
fact the whole face of the country is covered with them, and it 
only requires a ready market, like the Bonny, to induce the 
natives to manufacture (the palm oil) in immense quantities 
for exportation. 

" I judge that a few remarks upon the health of the place 
will not be considered premature. Upon this subject 1 have 
been tremblingly anxious and watchful, as I am satisfied that 
it will ultimately determine the destiny of the colony. The 
natural advantages in every other respect, are equal to those 
of any other part of the globe; and I think, we may indulge 
a well grounded hope that Providence has been no less pro- 
pitious in regard to the salubrity of our location. I speak 
with caution, being fully sensible that years must elapse, before 
we can form a decided opinion on this very important subject. 
I can only speak of it comparatively, and so can safely say, 
it is a far more healthy place than Cape Mesurado. I am 
warranted in saying this, from the circumstance that a number 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 415 

of our colonists were weak and sickly, when they embarked 
from that place, and every one will bear testimony, that their 
health was quite restored. As to myself, I have not enjoyed 
so good health for the space of one week, during four years, 
as for the last two months. I have been able to labour daily, 
to eat heartily, and to sleep at night." 

There is a pleasing circumstance in the commencement of 
this colony, and one too which it may be confidently believed 
will ensure to it greater prosperity than any thing else. It 
was begun by a public acknowledgment of God, the Ruler 
of the Universe, and a day of public thanksgiving for the 
whole colony was appointed for the fourth of July. On this 
subject. Dr. Hall remarks: "I have appointed the fourth of July 
next, as .a day of thanksgiving, after our old New England 
fashion; and I doubt not that you will consider it, under exist- 
ing circumstances, well timed, and becoming a Christian com- 
munity. Not a day nor an hour passes, but I feel an inward 
conviction, that we are, and have been especially favoured by 
Divine Providence, and I judge that a public expression of our 
gratitude for such favours, would not only be our duty to the 
Great Author of all good, but gratifying to our pious and 
philanthropic patrons." 

In the enumeration of special providential blessings expe- 
rienced, in the proclamation of the agent, the following are 
noticed : " From the moment of our embarkation from our 
native land, we have experienced one uninterrupted series of 
prosperous events. When, on the mighty deep, he caused the 
storm to cease, and the waves thereof to be still, and timely 
brought us to the haven where we would be. He so disposed 
the minds of the heathen that they kindly welcomed us to 
their delightful shores, and granted us their soil as our home, 
for ever. The season has been uncommonly propitious to our 
designs. The early rains have been deferred until we are well 
prepared for their approach. The earth has yielded a quick 
and needful reward to the husbandman. The pestilence which 
has ever begirt the coast as a wall of fire, has passed lightly 
over us, and claimed but a solitary victim. Cheerfulness and 
contentment reign throughout our little settlement; peace rests 
upon our borders," 

The chief difficulty which the Board of Managers found in 
collecting emigrants, arose from the incredulity of the coloured 



416 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

people of Maryland, in regard to the reports made to them of 
the advantages of Liberia. Even when their friends wrote to 
them favourably of the country, inviting them to emigrate, they 
believed that there was a restraint upon the writers, and that 
the agent prevented any letters from reaching America, which 
did not speak in terms of praise of Africa. The ingenuity of 
the people of colour in the State, however, devised a very sim- 
ple test of the reliance which might be placed on the letters of 
their friends. Before they emigrated, they took a small slip of 
calico, and divided it into two parts; the one was taken by the 
emigrant, and the other remained with his friend. By sending 
back these little tokens, assurance was given that the state- 
ments in the letters were true, and that he wrote without res- 
traint. 

The opinion is expressed in the Fourth Report of the Mana- 
gers to the Society, " that colonization is ultimately to be car- 
ried on, mainly, by voluntary emigration, at the cost of the 
emigrant himself, and that the scheme cannot otherwise be 
successful." This opinion seems to have been hastily adopted, 
and, therefore, does not merit that implicit regard which 
most of the opinions of this Board demand. No doubt there 
will hereafter be many emigrants of this description, sacri- 
ficing all their little property, to reach the desired asylum of 
the coloured race; but this can never be realized in relation 
to liberated slaves, who will probably form much the most 
numerous portion of future emigrants. And this opinion comes 
with a bad grace from the State Society of Maryland, who 
have the legislature of the State cooperating with them, and 
which has already appropriated two hundred thousand dollars 
to aid the enterprise. 

Mr. and Mrs. Wilson having selected a delightful spot near 
the end of the lake for their missionary station, called it very 
appropriately. Fair Hope, and immediately commenced opera- 
tions; Mr. Wilson by an attempt to reduce the language of the 
natives to writing, and Mrs. Wilson by opening a school for 
native children, and also for those of the colonists who might 
choose to attend. A school was also opened by a Miss McAl- 
ister, of the Methodist church; and one for the colony, by Mrs. 
Thompson, who joined the Cape Palmas emigrants from Mon- 
rovia, together with her husband. 

The Rev. Mr. Gould, who, it was mentioned, went out to 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 417 

superintend the ennigrants, and see them comfortably settled in 
their houses, performed his duty with great fidelity and accep- 
tance, and passed through the acclimating fever without appa- 
rent injury; but experiencing much rongh weather in a tedious 
passage home, he departed this life about two months after his 
arrival in America. He was a good and pious man, devoted 
to the cause of religion and humanity, and his loss was truly 
lamented. His testimony was very favourable indeed, as it 
related to soil, climate, productions, health, &c. 

The relations of the emigrants with the natives were placed 
on a proper, and it is hoped, a lasting footing, by the prompt 
energy and firmness of Dr. Hall. One of the kings, soon after 
the settlement was made, set an enormous price on his rice, 
and threatened to prevent the governor from sending elsewhere 
to get a supply. In vain Dr. Hall remonstrated. The king 
was inexorable, and said he would attack the governor's boat, 
whenever it set out for rice to a neighbouring town. Dr. Hall 
told him that they would prefer dymg as brave men, to being 
starved to death; and that if the boat was interrupted, war 
should be the consequence. After this brief conference, the 
governor retired to the settlement, and prepared for defence. 
The people stood to arms, all night, and in the morning he 
despatched the boat. The king, instead of making an attack 
on it, came in person to the governor, and made an humble 
apology. Since then the influence of the colonists has been 
increasing— aided, most materially, by the presence and labours 
of the missionaries, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson. Both Dr. Hall and 
Mr. Wilson were also successful, in rescuing from a cruel death 
several persons condemned by the superstitions of the people, 
as havmg caused evil, by the practice of diabolical arts, or 
witchcraft. 

The Board were informed by Dr. Hall, that the state of his 
health required a cessation from the active duties of the agency, 
and a return to the United States. Upon this they selected 
Mr. Holmes as his successor, who was sent out several months 
before the expected departure of Dr. Hall, that by being with 
this judicious and experienced agent, he might become ac- 
quainted with the business of the office; and be the better pre- 
pared to fill a station so highly responsible. 

The managers conclude their fourth report, by expressing 
their unshaken confidence in the wisdom of the plan which 



418 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

they had adopted; and in confirmation of their own opinion, 
they refer to the testimonies receiv^ed in its favour, from some 
of the wisest men, belonging to other States; and particularly 
refer to a speech made in defence of the plan, before the Ameri- 
can Colonization Society at Washington, by a gentleman who 
had been among the first and most efficient of the promoters of 
colonization, while yet there had been no foothold obtained in 
Africa — one whose intimate and long acquaintance with the 
old system made his sanction of tenfold authority. The person 
here referred to, was doubtless Francis S. Key, Esq., of George- 
town. Finally, the managers congratulate the society on having 
the honour of being the first to introduce this plan; and con- 
cerning the State, they say, "The policy of the State has been 
liberal and enlightened, and there can be little doubt that to it 
is to be attributed her total exemption from excitement during 
the recent period of agitation on the subject of slavery, when 
the efforts of a few misguided zealots caused the friends of 
union and order to tremble for the future." 

Dr. Hall, in a more recent despatch, dated October 15th, 
informed the Board, that perplexing difficulties had arisen in 
consequence of various thefts committed by the natives, in 
which the culprits were screened from detection and punishment, 
by their king, who acted very deceitfully on the occasion. The 
colonists were dependent on these people for the rice on which 
they subsisted; and yet the agent was convinced that a firm 
stand must be taken, and justice demanded for the depredations 
of the people; and by the aid of a shrewd fellow, by the name 
of Davis, things were so managed, that many of the stolen 
articles were privately restored. A palaver also was held, and 
the trade which had been interrupted was again renewed, and 
the colony obtained an adequate supply of rice. 

The custom of the people in trying and punishing persons 
accused of witchcraft, shows the miserable state of society 
among these people; and as the account is curious, I will 
subjoin an extract from Dr. Hall's letter in a note.* 



* "They have a custom like our pious and sapient forefathers of Salem, of attri. 
buting all the great calamities of life to witchcraft, particularly all sudden deaths 
of the middle aged and active. In such cases, the greegree man, doctor, or grand 
devil, synonymous terms, is consulted, and he points out the witch or necromancer 
so otfending. In order then to prove whether the suspected is actually guilty, he is 
compelled to drink large quantities of the decoction of a poisonous tree, called 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 419 

In the same despatch, Dr. Hall makes some remarks, which 
appear highly worthy of the attention of all concerned in the 
colonization of the free people of colour on the coast of Africa. 

saucy wood. Should he survive, he is deemed innocent; but othervrise, should it 
prove fatal. Quite a number liave been subjected to this ordeal, since our settle- 
ment here, and some have died in the most excruciating tortures. Should the 
culprit vomit freely, within half an hour or so after taking it, before it has time to 
affect the system or influence the stomach, he experiences but little inconvenience 
from it. But should it remain on the stomach an hour or two, that organ, and the 
whole alimentary canal, become highl}' inflamed; constant and violent vomiting, 
and purging succeed, and continue until the subject is completely exhausted. And 
to add greatly to his misery, he is placed, at the moment of taking the decoction 
under a guard of soldiers, who keep him constantly in motion, racing about on 
tlie sand beach in the hot sun, hardly allowing him rest during his violent evacua- 
tions. When his strength begins to fail, they force him to continue his move- 
ments by sharp sticks, knives, and bayonets. The poor wretch now becomes 
frantic, and vainly attempts revenge upon his persecutors, until completely over- 
come by the potency of the poison and his excessive exertions, he sinks upon the 
sand, and expires in the most excruciating agonies. One of the natives, who has 
frequently officiated as soldier of the guard in such eases, informed me that the 
torments of the victims were so great, in the last stages, that the guard were 
frequently obliged to go to a distance, and turn their backs that they might not 
see their distortions, or hear their wailings and blasphemies. Since our resi- 
dence here, nine months, four or five have been subjected to tliis ordeal, two 
cases of which have terminated fatally. But a few days since, one of the head- 
men, and one who has uniformly befriended the colony, was arraigned and found 
guilty of bewitching sundry members of the family of one of his rivals, and 
doomed to the trial of saucy wood. He had taken his first potion before I was 
informed of it, and they had commenced driving him about. It had a very 
severe effect upon the poor fellow, but he was quite comfortable at night. But 
the grand devil declared that, inasmuch as it wrought thus hard with him, he 
must turn to and take it again on the morrow. Being informed of this, I went 
down early in the morning, called a palaver, and endeavoured to have the man 
released. But all reasoning, entreaties, gifls, and threatenings were of no avail. 
They appeared to owe him a deep grudge, which nothing but his death could 
appease. On returning home, I was informed that they have an ancient rule 
something like this: — that in case a man is condemned to drink saucy wood, 
any friend of superior rank or standing, can clear him by taking him by the 
hand, when the potion is about to be administered ; but the one so doing takes 
upon himself the responsibility, and is liable either to supply his place or pay 
heavy damages. In this case the king wished and had attempted to clear Posso, 
the prisoner, but he knew the consequence would be dangerous, so great was the 
excitement against him. Upon hearing this, I immediately set off for the sand 
beach, and arrived just as they were driving off his wives and children, who had 
been taking their last farewell. About five hundred people were collected, and 
formed into a hollow square, in the midst of which was his Satanic Majesty in 
full panoply, just raising a two gallon pot, filled to the brim, with the poisonous 
decoction, to the lips of the wretched Posso. Poor fellowl he was so altered from 
yesterday's drenching, and the dismal prospect before him, that I should not have 



420 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

"Since my first acquaintance with the colony at Cape Mesu- 
rado, I have been decidedly of opinion, that unless the natives 
of this country can be enlightened and improved; unless they 
can be raised to a level with the colonists, and amalgamate with 
them, colonization will prove a heavy curse to both parties. 
And, inasmuch as it does not seem immediately advantageous 
to the colonists to enlighten the natives, we cannot expect them 
to use any great exertions to do it. They have concerns of 
their own to attend to, and can only influence the natives by 
examples. We must have the aid of missionaries and teachers, 
and of them not a few. Independent of the welfare of the 
colony, 1 do not believe there is a place on the globe where 
missionary labour would yield so great a reward. The popu- 
lation is dense, the inhabitants peaceable, intelligent, and ex- 
tremely anxious for information; and there is no bar or hin- 
drance whatever to the most full and ample operations of the 

recognized him had he been mixed with the crowd : his countenance was despair 
itself. I briefly told them, that if any one had any palaver for Posso, I would 
satisfy him according to our laws, and would be responsible for all that they could 
prove against him : tlien taking him by tlie hand, marched him off, amid the 
mingled shouts and execrations of his friends and persecutors. This one circum- 
stance would demonstrate to you the beneficial influence we even now begin to 
exert among the natives, and that our hopes of overthrowing their barbarous and 
long established customs, are not visionary. The number that annually fall 
victims to the accursed machinations and blind zeal of these greegree men, a 
compound of priests, doctors, and devils, is incalculable. During the nine months 
since our arrival, four have been killed in this way, in this one town; and within 
twenty miles of us, we can number ten or fifteen towns, equally large, where this 
business is practised to the same extent. The sacrifices of Juggernaut cannot 
compare with this, either with regard to the number of victims, or the horror of 
the sacrifice. In that case, it is a religious self-immolation ; in many instances, 
stimulated by the noblest sentiments of our nature. The victim, in fact, dies a 
religious martyr, and glories in his exit. But here, the innocent falls a sacrifice 
to vile practice and jugglery, and suflers a shockingly painful and inglorious 
death as a criminal, which death is considered by these deluded people as an 
incontestable proof of his guilt as a 'witch man,' or necromancer. This evil 
calls loudly for a remedy, and from the above incident, you see that a remedy is 
practicable, and at hand too. We might forcibly put a stop to it by legal enact- 
ments, but this is not expedient. The more judicious way to put an end to this, 
and the many other diabolical and cruel practices of the greegree men, is to 
diffuse light and information among the majority of the people. This course is 
slow, but practicable and sure. Many, very many, of the more intelligent natives 
already declare that they will have nothing to do with such business ; but still 
they are overruled by the rabble, and cry out earnestly for more light. And to 
diffuse this light seasonably, the colony, unaided, is inadequate. We must have 
assistance." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. ^21 

missionary and philanthropist. The advantages that the colony 
and the missionary cause will mutually derive from each other 
are incalculable. The missionary alone, surrounded by barba- 
rians, totally dissimilar in every mode of action or thought, is 
viewed as a supernatural being, and although they may ever 
so much admire his precepts and desire improvement, still, so 
great is the distance between what they are and would be, that 
the task seems too great for them to undertake, their resolution 
is inadequate to it, and after a few ineifectual struggles, despon- 
dency and indifference succeed to hope. But here we are intro- 
ducing amongst people, many of whom are already accustomed 
to Europeans, some of their own race, possessing the advan- 
tages of civilization, acquired even during a period of slavery 
and degradation. Of these advantages, I assure you, the natives 
are fully sensible, and they are sensible too, that the same ad- 
vantages are within their reach; that the difference between 
them and the colonists is artificial, and that the barriers to their 
elevation are easily surmounted. Their ambition and perse- 
verance are adequate to this task, and to effect it, and speedily 
too, they only require instruction — instruction in the most gene- 
ral sense of the word. To preach the Christian religion to them 
without doing any thing more, in their present state, is to do 
nothing, and worse than nothing; they are unable to appre- 
ciate its excellencies, and would place it and its preachers on a 
level with their own long established superstitions and their 
greegree men. They must, at the same time, possess the advan- 
tage of acquiring information from letters, and be permitted to 
pursue any branch of knowledge most agreeable to them; they 
must be made acquainted wiih the minor affairs appertaining 
to civilized life, ere they are called upon to change their religion, 
justly esteemed, both by the barbarous and civilized, the most 
important matter connected with their existence. They must, 
to a certain extent, be made acquainted with political and scien- 
tific facts, and be convinced of their errors in matters that 
admit of demonstration, before we demand their conviction in 
matters of faith. In a word, to conduct the affair of civilizing 
and reclaiming the savage and barbarian, it requires not only a 
Christian and philanthropist, but men of the most profound 
knowledge of the human character, acquainted ivith the loorld, 
men of experience and extensive observation. Nor do I deem 
it of great impoitance, that such a one should be a professional 
36 



422 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

man. If so, the profession of medicine would be the most de- 
sirable. Probably no man could so readily acquire the confi- 
dence, and exercise a general influence over the inhabitants of 
this coast, as an industrious and intelligent physician. The 
remarks of Dr. Phihp, of the Cape of Good Hope settlement, 
upon this subject, I think entitled to great weight, and they 
ought to serve as a guide in all selections of men, for this inte- 
resting and important undertaking." 

By a meteorological table kept at Cape Palmas, by Dr. Hall, 
it appears that the mercury in Farenheit's thermometer seldom 
rises above 80°, and seldom falls lower than 70°. But the air 
is refreshed by the daily sea breezes; and except in the rainy 
season, the weather is clear and serene. Acclimated persons 
are seldom ever heard to complain of the climate as too warm: 
a disagreeable feeling of chilliness, especially in damp weather, 
is much more common. Woollen clothes are very comfortable 
during a large portion of the year, and are very much in use 
by the colonists and residents. 

Between Cape Palmas and Cape Mesurado, there is a much 
wider difference of cUmate than could be supposed from the 
small difference of latitude, and great similarity of the coast. 
At the latter place, double the quantity of rain falls to what 
does in the former; and in the dry season, at Cape Palmas, the 
air is frequently refreshed by showers of rain, whereas at 
Mesurado, there are several months during which no rain 
occurs. In the wet season also, Maryland (in Africa) has an 
interval of several days of dry weather, in which they can 
house the crop of rice. Tornadoes are frequent in February 
and March, but they are no more nor less than a thunder 
storm with a heavy dash of rain and a stiff flaw of wind, not 
amounting to what seamen would call a severe gale; and their 
continuance is seldom more than half an hour. Like other 
storms, they come on sometimes suddenly, and at others, give 
several hours' notice of their approach. Between the African 
tornado and West India hurricane, thefe is no comparison: the 
houses at Monrovia would have no chance to stand in the vio- 
lence of the hurricane, but are seldom injured by the tornado. 
April, May, and June, are the rainy months, during which the 
wind blows steadily day and night, from the south; and this 
continues with little variation, through July, August, and Sep- 
tember. July and August, however, are cool and pleasant 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 423 

months. About the end of December, the HariTiattan whid 
commences, which continues from three to fifteen days, during 
which the thermometer never varies more than two degrees, 
and is at its lowest degree on the scale, say from 70° to 72°. 
Dr. Hall thinks that there is very little difference between the 
wet and dry seasons, as it relates to health: every one ought to 
expect a seasoning; and he is not safe from the danger, under 
a complete year. The time most favourable for an arrival, as 
it relates to agricultural operations, is either in December or 
May. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 



CAPE PALMAS. 



The following descriptive letter is from the pen of Mrs. Wilson, 
to a friend in Philadelphia. 

" There are but few situations, perhaps, where the beauty 
and majesty of nature are more harmoniously united. On the 
south, and very near our door, the sea rolls up its waves with 
majestic power. We are elevated fifty feet above the water, 
and between us and it, a distance of one of your Philadelphia 
squares, we have a very pretty but irregular descent. On the 
east we have a beautiful salt lake, extending as far as the eye 
can reach eastward, but not more than the eighth of a mile in 
width. On this lake, if our lives are spared, we hope to have 
many canoe excursions — for I have a fine canoe, presented to 
me, that is dry, and not liable to capsize. The north presents 
a rich and verdant plain, through which winds a beautiful 
fresh water stream, that we can trace with the eye a great 
distance, from the piazza. On the west, we see at one view, 
three native towns and the colonial settlement. Our house is 
small and crowded, but comfortable. I have had our yard 
enclosed with a substantial fence, which enables us to regulate 
the excessive visits of the natives, a point of no small impor- 
tance, especially during our sickness. Many of the native 



424 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

children manifest a wish to learn, but we have been able to 
do nothing yet in the way of instrnction. The king makes us 
frequent visits, but observes no etiquette whatever, either as 
to the hour he conies, or the time he stays. The last time he 
v.'-as here, I affronted him much by giving him his dinner in 
the piazza. I sent him word that I did it because he was not 
very decently clad at that time." t 

Both Mr. and Mrs. Wilson took the fever of the climate, and 
the former was reduced very low, and for four months was 
hardly expected to recover; so that these devoted missionaries 
began to think seriously of a return to America. During his 
whole illness, Dr. Hall was indefatigable in his attentions. After 
his recovery, he returned to his labour of endeavouring to re- 
duce the native language to writing, in which he found many 
difficulties. Mrs. Wilson had the more agreeable task of pouring 
the light of instruction into minds long shrouded in ignorance 
and vice. Concerning her pupils, she writes: "We have erected 
a small room just outside of our garden, in which fifteen native 
boys assemble every morning about nine o'clock. Most of these 
are boys of family and promise, and we hope in a year or two 
they will be able to assist us in enlightening the dark minds of 
their countrymen. You would not be a little surprised, I am 
sure, at their improvement, although I devote a small part of the 
day to them. My health is sufficiently established to remain in 
the school-room three or four hours each day. I wish you could 
hear the boys singing a simple hymn I have taught them, com- 
mencing, 'Jesus who lives above the sky,' &c., to the tune of 
Castle-street. I am partial to this tune, having heard the little 
Indians under the care of Mr. Case sing it. And you would 
like to see them too, as they seat themselves on the floor in their 
own peculiar way, to listen to what I have to tell them out of 
the Bible. Mr. Wilson has gained great ascendency over the 
minds of these people. They call him the 'true man,' meaning 
he never changes his word. While Mr. Wilson was sick, they 
manifested much sympathy. One said, 'he could not bear to 
see Mr. Wilson so long ill.' They were sure the devil was in 
the house, and they had been up all night, drumming, and 
begging his majesty to retire from his present dwelling. And 
when Mr. Wilson began to grow better, they rejoiced, as they 
believed he had gone." 

There is something indescribably charming in the style of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 425 

simplicity and uncomplaining contentedness, in which Mrs. 
Wilson describes her afflictions and privations, when we con- 
sider that no lady in America was brought up more tenderly 
than she was. Descended from a family as truly respectable 
and estimable as any in this country, and enjoying every pros- 
pect of worldly ease and comfort, she, under the constraining 
influence of the love of her Saviour, resolved to devote her life 
to the conversion of the heathen. At first, she and her sister, 
like minded with herself, offered themselves to the American 
Board of Foreign Missions to go out single; but the committee, 
doubting the expediency of sending young unmarried females 
into the midst of the heathen, declined receiving them under 
their care. But Providence had in view a better plan than that 
which they in their zeal had devised; for each of them a com- 
panion and protector, devoted to the same glorious object, was 
provided. But to return to Cape Palmas. Mrs. Wilson describes 
to her correspondent the articles on which she daily breakfasted: 
"Our breakfast consists of a plate of rice and some cold bread. 
With these I eat molasses. Mr. Wilson has learned to eat palm 
oil, the only butter in Africa. After this meal, I am escorted 
by a number of my scholars, who esteem it a great honour to 
carry the chair on which I am to sit, or a book, or a card. I 
am now where I have wished to be, and I think I never was 
so happy as within the last three months." 

Mr. Wilson, after his recovery from his tedious illness, writes, 
August 4, 1835: "The date of my last was the 7th ultimo. Since 
then to the present time, our little family have enjoyed uninter- 
rupted health, and our prospects of living and being useful in 
this country, are far more encouraging than they were a few 
months ago. Our health is so good at present, that we have 
felt it to be our duty to commence our missionary labours, but 
we shall not lose sight of the importance of preserving our 
health above all other considerations. My wife, and her coloured 
assistant, have commenced a small day-school, composed partly 
of natives and partly of the children of the colonists — twelve or 
fifteen in all. We could increase the number of native chil- 
dren to almost any extent, but we thought it best to make a 
small beginning, and increase as circumstances would seem to 
warrant. The native scholars are such as have attained nearly 
to manhood, and most of them can speak intelligible English. 
The school has been in operation two weeks, and thus far the 
36* 



426 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

progress of the native scholars is quite satisfactory. At present 
they manifest much more eagerness, and equally as much 
capacity, as the American children. Besides her day-school, 
my wife superintends two Sabbath-schools — one for American 
children in the forenoon, and one in the afternoon for the natives, 
who understand English sufficiently to be benefitted by her 
instructions." Speaking of the slave-trade, he says, "Slavers 
hover along this coast like so many birds of prey, and seize 
their victims under the eyes of Americans, but nobody is found 
for their relief. The inculcation of religion among these people, 
will rear bulwarks against this traffic far more formidable than all 
the force that civilized nations can employ, and until this is done, 
there is very little hope of its termination. But I must stop this 
subject. My heart sickens when I look upon the wide desola- 
tion around me, and remember the apathy of my dear brethren 
at home. To call and appeal is only to mingle my voice with 
the many that are constantly falling upon their and your ears 
from all parts of the pagan world. There is work here for 
twenty men instead of one. 

"The colony, I think, is decidedly prosperous, and the disuse 
of rum will relieve it from many embarrassments. The fears I 
once entertained that the American colonists wonld injure and 
impose upon the natives, are entirely removed by the convic- 
tion, that the latter are making as rapid strides in the march of 
improvement and respectability as the former. The native boys 
in our school are very ambitious and aspiring. Several of them 
can read a little; and one or two are now learning to write; 
and we have constant applications to increase the number of 
scholars. If education is promoted among the natives, nothing 
need be apprehended about the Americans acquiring an over- 
bearing ascendency." 

The colony at Cape Palmas continued to flourish throughout 
the year 1835. The emigrants who went out in the Bourne 
and in the Harmony, passed throngh the fever without the loss 
of a single person. By a despatch from Dr. Hall shortly be- 
fore he left the colony, it appeared that he had made treaties 
with two of the neighbouring kings, by which large tracts of 
territory were ceded to the State Society, the consideration 
being, besides the trifling presents made at the palaver, the 
advantages which the kings would derive from the establish- 
ment of schools for their people, and the introduction of the arts 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 427 

of civilized life. A treaty was also made with the king of the 
Yeabreh people for the Balyeniah country, which give»the State 
Society the possession of both banks of the Cavally for some 
miles above its mouth. Dr. Hall had also the address to obtain 
from the King of Half-Cavally, a tract of land lying Uke a 
wedge in the midst of the Society's possessions, and which at 
first he had positively refused to sell. This land was, until 
purchased, a source of constant uneasiness, lest it should come 
into the possession of those who would there establish a fac- 
tory for the sale of ardent spirits, prohibited in Maryland in 
Liberia. In all these treaties, provision was made for continu- 
ing in the possession of the natives, their towns and cultivated 
fields, which lay within the ceded territory; for it was the 
policy of the society to attempt to civilize the natives, and to 
amalgamate them by degrees with the colonists from America, 
but to have them all under the control of the governor of 
Maryland in Liberia. In this despatch Dr. Hall gives further 
information respecting the river Cavally. He says, " It is a 
noble stream, navigable for vessels drawing twelve feet water, 
at all seasons, as high up as the cataract at Fayebank." 

The extent of territory acquired before Dr. Hall resigned his 
agency, was about five hundred square miles. In the Balye- 
mah cession is the orach of the whole country. Dr. Hall visit- 
ed the spot, and found it to be a large rock, from which, by 
means of a rude ventriloquism, possessed by the attending 
priest, a sound was made to proceed, which the priest interpre- 
ted as it pleased him. To the ignorant natives, this rock, situa- 
ted in a wild country, seems invested with intelligence, and 
hence its sanctity. The oracle of Delphos is thus revived on 
the coast of Africa, in Balyemah. 

The influence which the colony had already acquired over 
the superstitious minds of the natives, was manifest by a fact 
which took place while Dr. Hall was on his visit up the river 
Cavally. On the night on which he arrived at the chief town of 
the King of Haidee, the brother of the king died; and in conse- 
quence one of the natives was, next day, sentenced to undergo 
the ordeal by poison, on suspicion of being the cause of his 
death. Through the exertions of Dr. Hall this man was saved 
from the cruel and dangerous process, which consists in drink- 
ing vast draughts of a liquor, into which a red poisonous pow- 
der is infused. If he survives the operation he is considered 



428 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

innocent. In most cases, however, it causes speedy death, and 
then the guilt of the accused person is considered as confirmed. 
Considering the high rank of the deceased, and the prejudices 
of the people, it evinced a great respect for the governor to let 
the suspected man go free at his request. Through all western 
Africa, the poor people are more oppressed by this dreadful 
superstition, which ascribes almost every death and calamity to 
witchcraft, than by all other causes, except the nefarious slave 
trade. 

In a letter from William Floyd Burt, supercargo of the brig 
Eliza, of New York, to a friend in that city, we have the testi- 
mony of a disinterested witness to several facts worthy of bemg 
noticed in this history. " It is well known to you," says he, 
"that but few years have elapsed, since it was considered cer- 
tain death for at least one-half of the crews of all African mer- 
chant ships, (to visit this coast,) and the cause I do sincerely 
believe was the use of rum. Now, crews for this trade are 
almost uniformly shipped with the prohibition of rum; and I 
know of many vessels returning to New York without the loss 
of a man, and in fact, no record on the log, of sickness on board 
the whole voyage. Temperance in eating and drinking, avoid- 
ing exposure to the sun, and violent exercise, and making it a 
general rule not to be on shore after night-fall, and I believe 
one may prosecute a voyage on the coast of Africa with as 
much safety as in any part of the world." .... "It is really 
astonishing that our government should permit settlements of 
her own citizens to remain unprotected on this coast, when 
they might be protected and fostered at so little expense; and 
next to slavery, I consider it the greatest stigma on our na- 
tional character. But to return to the colony. But eighteen 
months have elapsed since the present governor, Dr. Hall, land- 
ed on this coast with about thirty men and boys, and made a 
purchase of a large extent of territory, without inserting the 
article rum in the list of purchase money, and it (the colony) 
has been supported and prospered without that article being 
allowed in the colony in any way. Being but little acquainted 
with the new settlements, you may not place much confidence 
in my judgment; but I doubt much if any town in our western 
country, has made equal progress with this, in the same time, 
with the expenditure of twice the amount of capital. But to 
confine myself to facts: — This village, now eighteen months old. 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 429 

contains twenty-three framed dwelling houses, of one and two 
stories; one two story stone dwelling house, and a commodious 
framed weather-boarded and thatched meeting house, independ- 
ent of the agency buildings, which are a fine two story residence 
for the governor, suitable out-houses, and a large forty-feet 
two story stone warehouse, handsomely finished on the inside, 
which would do honour to any of our wharves. There are three 
well constructed receptacles for emigrants; two of seventy-five 
feet length each, and one of a hundred and twenty feet. The 
latter stands on a public farm, about half a mile from the vil- 
lage, on which are being erected a two story dwelUng house 
for the farming agent, and a strong jail. On the farm lands, 
about a mile and a half from Harper, are nine dwelling houses, 
occupied by late emigrants; and I should judge that there are 
fifty acres of land under good cultivation; which in a short 
time will supply a sufficiency of vegetable food for the whole 
colony. When I have said this much, it will be unnecessary 
to add, that the people are enterprising and industrious, and the 
affairs of the colony well conducted. 

"There are two schools in the colony, which are attended 
both by colonists and natives, and I am informed that they both 
make rapid progress. That the natives lack not zeal in any 
matter, I am well assured, from seeing men of twenty and thirty 
years of age with their slate and cards, conning their alphabet. 

"There is a missionary establishment here under the care of 
the Rev. Mr. Wilson, who, together with his lady, appear to be 
admirably well adapted by their conciliating manners, to win 
the affections of the natives, which is indispensable to effect 
any change in their character. They both apparently enjoy 
good health, having become quite naturalized, although not a 
year has elapsed since they landed. The natives, although 
reported to be the most dangerous this side of St. Andrew's 
Bay, are now perfectly friendly and peaceable, and look up to 
the governor of the colony as to a father. The king made us a 
visit on board, dressed in a shirt, pantaloons, and a New York 
cut black coat, surmounted by two tarnished epaulettes, a tri- 
cocked hat, and long red plume. 

"The natural advantages of Cape Palmas are greater than 
those of any other point on the coast. The anchorage and 
landing are decidedly the best I have seen ; and, although it 
has little trade now, except palm oil, yet from its situation, 



430 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

being the connecting link between the leeward and windward 
coasts, it must one day command the main trade of both, and 
become a depot for immense quantities of merchandize to be 
distributed by small colonial crafts, from one to two hundred 
miles, each way."* 

By a still later communication from Dr. Hall, by Captain 
Pawlin, of the brig Susan Elizabeth, it appeared that the colony 
continued to flourish. The doctor says, "I am now able to 
assure you, that we continue to prosper; and, I believe I may 
truly say, that every month of our existence, witnesses an 
increase of energy, industry, and contentment, among the fine 
inhabitants of our little settlement." And Captain Pawlin gave 
to the Board a very decided testimony in favour of the colony. 
"The Maryland plan," says he, "is superior to all others. The 
colony is growing finely. All is health, activity, and pros- 
perity." 

One of the greatest difficulties experienced in the colony, was 
the want of a convenient circulating medium. All traffic was 
necessarily by barter, which often led to injustice. "The person 
who wanted to buy a piece of cotton goods may have nothing 
but rice to give in exchange for it; and he who had the cotton 
goods to sell, might not want the rice at that time. One of 
them, therefore, must make a sacrifice of his property, to induce 
the other to receive it in exchange when he did not want the 
article." 

To obviate this difficulty, the Board of Managers made cotton, 
of the growth of the colony, a legal tender, at the rate of ten 
cents a pound. The country being admirably adapted to the 
growth of this article, it was thought that such an ordinance 
would have a happy effect in promoting its culture. The ordi- 
nance adopted by the Board, provided for the appointment of 
discreet persons to be inspectors of cotton, to any one of whom 
all differences in regard to the quality or weight of the cotton 
should be submitted. 

During the year 1836 the Maryland Colonization Society sent 
two ships to Cape Palmas. The schooner Financier, with sev- 
enteen emigrants, sailed on the 9th of July, and the brig Niobe, 
with thirty-two emigrants, sailed in October following. In 
the Financier went out Simleh Ball, a head-man, whom King 
Freeman had sent to this country to see whether all those things 
were true which the Society's Agent had reported in Africa 

* Fourth Report, p. 74. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 431 

concerning the power of the white man; and to see whether 
there was a large number of Africans in slavery here. After 
remaining two months he sailed in the Financier, highly grati- 
fied with what he had seen and heard, deeply impressed with 
the power of the Americans, and furnished with a short and 
simple code of laws, adapted to the wants and within the com- 
prehension of the unlettered and uncivilized people for whom 
they were compiled. 

The Niobe, besides the emigrants, carried out the Rev. David 
White and lady, missionaries of the American Board of Com- 
missioners for Foreign Missions, and Dr. Savage, missionary of 
the Protestant Episcopal Church. Mr. White also took with 
him an intelligent coloured man, educated as a printer, to man- 
age the press sent to the colony by the American Board of 
Commissioners for Foreign Missions. The Methodist Protest- 
ant Church appointed David James, a coloured man, one of the 
emigrants in this vessel, of exemplary character and excellent 
abilities, their agent, with a view of preparing the way for more 
extensive missionary operations. 

During this year the society added a large tract to the terri- 
tory, which now extended on both sides of the Cavally river 
from the ocean to Denhah, a town thirty miles up the river. 

It now became necessary to appoint a permanent successor 
to Dr. Hall, as the Agent of the Society, and as Governor of 
Maryland in Liberia, Dr. Holmes's appointment being merely 
temporary. After mature deliberation John B. Russwurm of 
Monrovia, of whom we have before given an account, was ap- 
pointed. 

In the year 1837 there were two expeditions to Maryland 
in Liberia. The brig Baltimore sailed on the 17th of May 
with fifty-five emigrants, and on the 2Sth of November the 
Niobe made her second voyage, with eighty-six emigrants. 
The Baltimore, according to the report, carried out morally and 
physically one of the best and strongest, as well as the most 
thoroughly furnished expeditions that had yet left the United 
States for Africa. The Baltimore carried out the Rev. Mr. 
Payne and wife, and the Rev. Mr. Minor as missionaries. 

About this time there arose among the coloured people of the 
State a feeling adverse to emigration to Africa. The report 
thus speaks of the opposition which the agents met with in tra- 
Upon arriving in a neighbourhood to be 



433 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

visited, the agent would at once address himself to the free 
coloured people, and explain to them the design of colonization, 
and make statements in regard to Africa, its climate, soil, and 
productions, and the privileges granted by the society to those 
who emigrated to the colony. In most instances the persons 
thus addressed, would hear with kindness what was told them 
by the agent; many would express a willingness to emigrate, 
and some would at once put their names upon the list for the 
next expedition. In this situation would the agent leave them, 
and after completing his round, would return to assist those 
whom he had first visited, and who proposed to emigrate, in 
making their preparations. But in every instance he would 
find that an antagonist had been at work in his absence, and 
that the minds of the colonred people had in the interval been 
filled with ideas, which it was difficult if not impossible to eradi- 
cate in the time he could devote to the purpose; that calumnies 
and falsehoods, prepared with art, and suited to the prejudices 
of those for whom they were intended, had been uttered by 
persons whom it was impossible to identify, and who could 
only be traced in their course by the mischief they had done. 
It seemed at last to the agent, and was so reported by him to 
the Board of Managers, as though Abolition, instead of seeking 
openly to make converts in Maryland, had endeavoured to pro- 
mote its views by watching, foUowmg, and counteracting the 
agents of the Colonization Society. This state of things, how- 
ever, has been gradually changing, and the last expedition of 
eighty-four, all from Maryland, gives evidence of a spirit among 
the people of colour, that promises as large and constant an 
emigration as the means placed at the disposal of the managers 
of the State fund, with such as can be obtained from individual 
benevolence, will enable the State Society to meet." 

The appointment of Mr. Russwurm as Governor of Maryland 
in Africa, proved a wise step on the part of the colony. Dr. 
Hall, in writing to the Board of Managers, says, " There is one 
point on which the gentlemen of the Board have felt much 
anxiety, which I doubt not ere this has abated, I mean the ap- 
pointment of a coloured agent. In addition to the satisfaction of 
having my own prediction fulfilled in the so far able administra- 
tion of Mr. Russwurm, I have been gratified to find the mea- 
sure approved of, by the leading men in every settlement which 
I have visited on the coast, and by all masters of vessels with 



I 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 433 

whom I have had any intercourse; but more particularly by 
the merchants at Cape Coast, to whom Mr. Russwurm had 
been known as a man of business and a gentleman. To sum 
the whole matter up, I think that the colony was never in a 
more prosperous condition than at present, and I expect and con- 
fidently believe that ere the period of its existence shall be 
doubled, all the exciting anxiety to hear from it will be swal- 
lowed up in confidence, and its success established." Our 
limits will not allow us to carry on the history of this colony 
further, our main object being the history of the American Col- 
onization Societv. 



CHAPTER XXV 



AFFAIRS AT HOME. 



The Seventeenth Annual Meeting of the American Colonization 
Society took place in Washington, 20lh of January, 1834, in the 
Hall of the House of Representatives; and on several accounts 
was exceedingly interesting. Several speeches of great length 
and earnest animation were delivered, particularly by the Rev. 
R. J. Breckinridge, and Gerritt Smith, Esq. The address of 
the latter of these two gentlemen deserves particular attention, 
because, in a short time after it was delivered, he changed his 
views, attached himself to the Anti-Slavery Society of New 
York, and was soon placed at the head of that institution; and 
ever since has been a determined opposer of the Colonization 
Society, of which he had long been one of the most zealous 
and munificent patrons. It is somewhat remarkable, that Mr. 
Birney's closing Letters on Colonization, already referred to,, 
were directed against the abolitionists; but they were scarcely 
given to the public, before the writer, suddenly changing his 
long cherished views and sentiments in favour of colonization, 
attaches himself to those against whom he had wielded his pen, 
and becomes an ardent opposer of the cause which he had so 
lately ably defended. And a similar instance of conversion we 
37 



434 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

have in Gerritt Smith, Esq. In his anniversary speech at Wash- 
ington, he speaks of the pubheations of the Anti-Slavery So- 
ciety in the following terms: "Among its publications are some 
admirable vindications of the rights of man, which cannot be 
scattered too widely and thickly; but no small proportion of 
them are ill-judged, i^ash, uncharitable, and slanderous ; and 
some of them in truth cannot be called less than incendiary." 
He then proceeds as follows: " I said that the Anti-Slavery So- 
ciety had greatly wronged us. I believe that the wise and good 
among its members, (and it comprises many such,) are sensible 
of it. They have, to an undue extent, held our society responsible 
for the speeches and acts of its individual members. They have, 
as it seems to me, created a strong prejudice against our society, 
by harping on the fact, that ardent spirit is sold in Liberia. 

" Some of the charges brought against us by members of the 
Anti-Slavery Society, and by the Society itself, make so ludi- 
crously large draughts on the public credulity, that one can 
hardly notice them seriously. Such is the charge, that two 
hundred and sixty-five thousand of those now in slavery, 
would have been free ere this time, were it not for the influ- 
ence which the Colonization Society exerts in favour of slavery. 
I need not detain you with the reasoning employed to substan- 
tiate this charge; for the reasoning which results in such a con- 
clusion cannot be very edifying. 

" Another of these charges, which it requires the credulity of 
Mhe Jew Apella' to swallow, is, (I will repeat the precise lan- 
guage of the charge,) that 'all colonies on tiie African coast, of 
whatsoever description, must tend to support the slave-trade.'" 

But although Mr. Smith, at this time, seems to have been 
honestly opposed to the Anti-Slavery Society, yet it is very 
manifest from the accusations which he brings against the 
Colonization Society, that his attachment to it was already on 
the wane. It is evident, that although he disapproved of some 
of the publications, and of some of the measures of the aboli- 
tionists, he was already infected with their spirit; and that with 
such sentiments and feelings as now actuated him, he only 
needed some exciting occasion to transfer him from the ranks 
of colonization to those of abolition. Such an occasion soon 
occurred in the rude violence oifered to the Anti-Slavery Con- 
vention at Utica. Mr. Smith's feelings of indignation against 
such injustice and outrage, induced him to invite the conven- 



HISTORTT OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 435 

tion to meet at Peterborough, his own place of residence. 
Henceforward, he became identified with them, and in a short 
time was placed at the head of the Anti-Slavery Society. It 
surely could not be the violence of a mob, who had no con- 
nexion with the Colonization Society, which so suddenly and 
completely alienated him from a society to which he was once 
so much attached, and to which he had been recently so liberal 
a benefactor. But it cannot be denied, that Mr. Smith is an 
honourable man: all his pecuniary engagements to the Coloni- 
zation Society were amply and speedily fulfilled; and now the 
Anti-Slavery Society shares his munificence as largely as once 
did the Colonization Society. 

At the meeting of the society in lS34,a committee, appointed 
to prepare a new constitution, reported the draught of a con- 
stitution, which was discussed, article by article, and adopted. 
The provisions of the new constitution were extremely simple, 
and free from such regulations as only serve to trammel socie- 
ties in their operations. 

The articles were only nine in number. The first merely 
relates to the name; the second defines the design and object of 
the institution; the third specifies the sum which should be 
sufficient to constitute any citizen of the United States a life- 
member; the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh, designate the 
officers of the society, and prescribe their duties; the eighth 
relates to the Board of Managers, their powers and duties; and 
the ninth provides for the formation of auxiliary societies. 

Mr. Gerrilt Smith introduced a number of resolutions in- 
tended to elicit information on various points not included in 
the annual report — as, 1, The number of persons who have 
emigrated to Liberia. 2. The number who have died on the 
passage. 3. The whole population of the colony, and how it 
is made up. 4. The number of lawful marriages in the colony. 

5. The number of persons convicted of crimes of a high grade. 

6. The value of exports and imports. 7. The amount of agri- 
cultural productions, during the last five years. 8. The number 
of colonists now worth five thousand dollars; and also the num- 
ber worth ten thousand. 9. The proportion of agriculturists 
and mechanics. It was resolved, that, hereafter, the Reports of 
the Board shall contain statistical information on all the points 
specified. 

The Seventeenth Annual Report mentions, with due respect 



436 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to his memory, the decease of the Rev. Stephen Balch, D. D., of 
Georgetown. The following is the testimony of the Board of 
Managers to the worth of this venerable man, who had been 
a member from the first institution of the society. 

"The name of the Rev. Stephen Balch, D. D., is deeply en- 
graven on the hearts of the members of this society, and of this 
community; and with it are associated recollections of a charac- 
ter in which were happily combined vigorous powers of intel- 
lect, with all the Christian virtues. In him, strict integrity and 
unbending " firmness were softened and made attractive by 
candour, meekness, charity, and a simplicity that knew no 
guile. His consistency of conduct was remarkable; the feelings 
of childhood softened the rigours of age; and amidst the trials 
to which he was occasionally exposed, his soul dwelt in seren- 
ity, and the light of an uninterrupted cheerfulness shed a 
charm over his protracted life. 

" In contributing to found this institution, and from its origin 
to conduct its operations. Dr. Balch exhibited that enlarged 
benevolence towards men, and that confidence in God, by 
which alone individuals are prepared to engage successfully in 
enterprises difiicult of accomplishment, and promising their 
largest benefits to future generations of mankind. He hath 
entered into rest, walking in his uprightness." 

During the preceding year, the managers reported to the 
society, that several expeditions had been despatched to Liberia, 
The brig Ajax, Captain W. H. Taylor, with a hundred and 
fifty emigrants had sailed from Norfolk, Virginia, in April. Of 
these, one hundred and two were from Kentucky; forty-four 
from Tennessee ; and the remainder from New Orleans, St. 
Louis, and Ohio. More than ninety of those from Kentucky 
were manumitted slaves, and several of those from Tennessee. 
Of the whole number, only six were above fifty years of age, 
and but five between forty and fifty; and the whole company 
of the most respectable character. During their passage, they 
enjoyed the best accommodations and were accompanied by 
Mr. H. D. King, an agent from Tennessee, who went out to 
ascertain for himself the condition and prospects of the colony; 
and also by Mr. A. H. Savage, of Ohio, who had most benevo- 
lently devoted himself to the moral and intellectual improve- 
ment of the people of colour in Africa. Unhappily, the cholera 
was prevailing at New Orleans, when these emigrants arrived, 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 437 

and no less than twenty-nine of them fell victims to this 
mysterious and fatal disease, which has traversed the world 
in its destructive career. In consequence of some delay at 
one of the West India Islands, the Ajax did not arrive at 
Liberia, until some time in July. 

In May, the brig American, Captain Abels, sailed from Phila- 
delphia, with a small company of emigrants, mostly from the 
state of New York. Among the emigrants was a venerable 
old man from Littleton, New Hampshire, who had for years 
been deeply affected by the condition of his African brethren. 
This old man was anxious to visit that benighted country, in 
the hope of imparting to them a knowledge of the true God 
and only Saviour, Jesus Christ. 

The ship Jupiter also sailed from Norfolk on the 5th of 
November, with fifty emigrants; forty-four of whom were 
liberated slaves, most of them from Virginia. In this vessel 
sailed Dr. Todsen, the colonial physician, the Rev. John Fin- 
ney, the Rev. Messrs. Cloud and Laird, with the wife of Mr. 
Laird, and Mr. John Temple, a man of colour, missionaries 
of the Western Missionary Society of the Presbyterian church. 
Also, Rev. Messrs. Spaulding and Wright, with their wives, 
and a young lady, as assistant; missionaries of the Methodist 
Episcopal church. 

This vessel was followed, in a few days, by the brig Argus, 
Captain Peters, with fifty-one emigrants, thirty-five of whom 
were manumitted slaves, and nearly the whole number from 
Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

The health of the colonists had suffered much during the 
year; and the mortaUty among the emigrants by the latest 
expeditions had been unusually great. Out of six hundred 
and forty-nine emigrants, one hundred and thirty-four died. 
Though all were more or less subject to the fever, those who 
came from the northern parts of the United States suffered 
by far the most. This extraordinary mortality, it was supposed, 
might be attributed in a considerable degree to the fact, that 
there was no skilful physician present in the colony. Dr. 
Todsen had paid a visit to the United States, and Dr. Hall 
whom he left in Liberia, was obliged to return on account of 
his own health. The whole duty of rendering medical aid 
devolved, therefore, on the colonial agent. Dr. Mechlin, who had 
duties sufficiently numerous and arduous in his own department 
37* 



438 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to occupy all his time and attention; and in addition, he him- 
self was visited with frequent attacks of disease; and the sick 
were separated so far apart, that it was impossible for him to 
attend upon them. The emigrants too, were imprudent, and 
did not sufficiently guard against the exciting causes of fever; 
especially those from the Southern parts of the United States, 
who supposed that they were not liable to be attacked by the 
African fever. And when sick, instead of following the advice 
of those in the colony who had experience, they listened to 
those of their own number who professed to have skill. 

Dr. jNIechlin was of opinion that Bassa Cove was a much 
healthier site for the landing of emigrants than Monrovia: and 
here, as has been related, a considerable tract of land had been 
purchased. This was recently much enlarged by the wise 
policy of the agent; so that the territory extended fifteen miles 
into the interior on the Benson's river, and included between 
one hundred and fifty and two hundred square miles of the 
best land, with two eligible mill-seats, and abounding with the 
best timber. Concerning this land, the agent, in one of his 
despatches, says: "For fertility of soil and the facilities for 
procuring articles of trade and subsistence, I know of no place 
within our limits, that can compare with the country in the 
vicinity of St. John's river." On the tract of land purchased 
by the same gentleman, on the Little Bassa, one hundred and 
fifty emigrants settled during the preceding year, and erected 
a village, beautifully situated and commanding a view of the 
ocean, which received the name of Edina, in honour of the 
liberahty of the people in Edinburgh, Scotland. In this settle- 
ment provisions were much cheaper than at ^Monrovia. 

Notwithstanding that the season was unhealthy, and the 
mortality great, still the progress of the colony was onward. 
During the year, several vessels were built in the colony, and 
the arrivals at Monrovia amounted to seventy. The Board 
used every means in their power to turn the attention of the 
colonists more to agriculture, and less to trade; but the pur- 
suits of freemen cannot be regulated by rule, or accommodated 
to general principles of political economy. Individuals in every 
country, will engage in that business which brings them in the 
largest profit. Many unreasonable expectations were enter- 
tained respecting this colony, which are not realized in our 
own, or in any other country. The people of Liberia are as 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 439 

free to choose their own pursuits as any upon earth; and the 
only method by which they can be induced to follow one mode 
of life rather than another, is by convincing them that this will 
be most profitable, at least in the long run. And when too 
many persons engage in trade, the evil soon corrects itself, by 
the sraallness of the gains which accrue to individuals. No 
doubt, however, the views of the Board were correct, that the 
solid growth and safety of the colony would be better pro- 
moted by attention to agriculture, rather than commerce; and 
their exhortations to the colonists, on this subject, were not 
only well intended, but wise. Still, however, it is known to 
all, that cities flourish just in proportion as they enjoy a lucra- 
tive commerce. And if Monrovia had not possessed enter- 
prising merchants, her wealth and prosperity would have been 
this day nothing like what she now enjoys. Some patriotic 
persons, however, who had not been brought up to agriculture, 
directed their attention to the culture of the coflee tree, that 
others might be led to follow their example. The demand for 
mechanical labour was uniformly great, so that every one who 
had learned a handicraft trade, was easily able to make a good 
living. 

No subject should be more interesting to a young colony, 
than education; this had from the beginning received much 
attention from the Board, and the successive agents who pre- 
sided over the colony. At the time of which we are now 
treating, most of the children of the emigrants were enjoying 
the advantage of being at school. Six schools were maintained 
in the colony, three of which were supported by a society of 
benevolent ladies in Philadelphia. The Auxiliary Coloniza- 
tion Society of Massachusetts, appropriated, early in the year, 
the sum of one thousand dollars for the establishment and 
support of a free school; and a judicious plan and regulations 
for such an institution were drawn up by the society, and for- 
warded to Liberia. Mr. Savage also, of whom we have 
spoken, had formed the plan of a manual labour school at 
Millsburg, for which enterprise he was deemed excellently 
qualified. About this time also, many ladies of the city of 
New York, of different denominations, united in a society, to 
promote education in Africa. Their plan was to get an asso- 
ciation formed in every congregation, to raise a sum sufficient 
to support a single teacher. The managers also expressed 



440 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

their opinion of the importance of erecting a high school in 
Liberia, on the plan and fund of Henry Sheldon, Esq. But 
the ideas of many in this country were very crude, and indeed, 
erroneous on this subject. They seemed to think that if funds 
could be obtained, and qualified teachers would consent to go, 
a college might speedily be erected. They neglected to con- 
sider, that prepared pupils are necessary to a college, as well 
as teachers; and where could such be found in Liberia? A 
good classical school was the highest institution which Liberia 
needed at present, and of which she was capable. 

The number of churches in the colony, at the commence- 
ment of the year 1834, was nine. The Sabbath and public 
worship were well observed; and many of the recaptured Afri- 
cans had joined themselves to some Christian church. 

It was scarcely to be expected, that in the infancy of the 
colony, there would be much attempted for the conversion of 
the pagans of the country: but the Baptist Missionary Society 
of Monrovia, this very year appointed Adam W. Anderson a 
missionary to the Vey people at Cape Mount, and instructed 
him not only to preach the gospel to the adults of this nation, 
but to teach the English language to their children. All the 
tribes in the vicinity of the colony appeared to be ready to 
receive instruction in letters, arts, and Christianity. Thousands 
of human beings, degraded and benighted, seemed to invoke 
the spirit of missionary enterprise to extend its benefits over an 
almost unlimited field. 

It was pleasing to remark, that an extraordinary zeal for the 
instruction and civilization of Africa, seemed about this time to 
occupy the minds of many, both in Europe and America. 
Two promising missionaries, Mr. Cox and Mr. Pinney, had 
already set foot on the African shore; the former sent out by 
the Methodist Episcopal church, and the latter by the Presby- 
terian church. The former, whose zeal was uncommonly 
ardent, had but a short course. His health was bad before he 
went to Africa, and he had laboured but little here before he 
was cut off in the morning of life ; but his dying words were 
calculated to encourage others to come and rescue unhappy 
Africa from the galling yoke of sin and idolatry. Mr. Cox 
went to Africa, labouring under a consumption of the lungs, 
which soon carried him off. Of him, the managers say, "He 
had conferred with many intelligent and religious men at 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 441 

the English colonies, acquired valuable information, compre- 
hensively and judiciously surveyed the wide field before him, 
and adopted the largest plans of usefulness. His intellectual 
strength and activity — his zeal, charity, and apostolic devo- 
tion, qualified him for great achievements: and though fallen 
when his armour was just put on for the conflict, he speaks 
to the church and her elect host to follow him, in the words 
ordered by him to be engraven on his monument, ' Let 

THOUSANDS FALL BEFORE AfRICA BE ABANDONEE.' Animated 

by his spirit, and moved by his example, two missionaries with 
their wives, and a young lady, as a teacher, of the Methodist 
denomination, soon after went out to occupy the station which 
he had vacated; and to seek, through the might of Him who 
claims the homage of all hearts, to turn the barbarians of Africa 
from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God." 

Mr. Pinney, having spent some months in Liberia, returned 
to America, to secure more labourers, and to communicate his 
views to the Board of Missions. When he returned, he had 
with him the Rev. Mr. Laird and the Rev. Mr. Cloud, together 
with Mr. Temple, a man of colour. But new disasters were 
in store for the missionary cause. Mr. Laird and his wife had 
been landed but a short time in Liberia, before they botlrsicken- 
ened and died, and so did Mr. Cloud, and Mr. Temple returned 
home. Thus all the recruits which Mr. Pinney could obtain 
in the United States were cut off in a few weeks, and he was 
left as solitary and forlorn as ever. But Providence turned 
away his attention for a while from the missionary field, for the 
health of Dr. Mechlin having failed, he returned to the United 
States, and the offer of the place of Colonization Agent hav- 
ing been made unsuccessfully to several persons, Mr. Pinney, 
just on the eve of sailing, was appointed colonial agent, until a 
successor to Dr. Mechlin could be obtained. It was with great 
reluctance that Mr. Pinney accepted this appointment, as his 
desire was to carry the gospel to the native tribes, and in the 
character of a missionary, he had set his heart on Africa. 

Various complaints were made to the Managers of misman- 
agement at the colony ; and these came through so many dif- 
ferent channels, that they could not but believe that there was 
urgent need of reform, in regard to some particulars, in the 
economy of the goods and funds. The particulars to which 
these complaints related were, " the method of supplying the 



443 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

necessities of the newly arrived emigrants — of allotting to them 
their lands — of guarding their health — of exciting their indus- 
try and public spirit — of securing increased attention to agricul- 
ture — suppressing the traffic in ardent spirit, and conducting 
the operations and defraying the expenses of the colonial gov- 
ernment." On all these points, the Board were of opinion, that 
there was reason and room for improvement. 

In the course of the year 1833, two persons of character and 
weight in the colony, Mr. Anthony D. Williams, vice-agent, 
and Mr. J, J. Roberts, high-sheriff of the colony, visited vari- 
ous parts of the United States, and there can be no doubt but 
that their visit to this country was attended with beneficial re- 
sults. These gentlemen submitted to the Board a memorial 
from some of the leading colonists, in which they propose, as a 
measure likely to give satisfaction and do good, the enlarge- 
ment of the council as to numbers, and the increase of their 
powers. These views were, to a certain extent, sustained by 
the agent; but as it was expected that the entire system of poli- 
tical and civil jurisprudence, in Liberia, would require a revi- 
sion, the Board determined not to make any change at present. 

Dr. Mechlin returned again to the United States in conse- 
quence of impaired health. This gentleman did much to en- 
large the territory of the colony, and to extend its influence; 
but whether he was a good financier, and managed the pecuni- 
ary concerns of the colony with judgment and economy, seems 
doubtful. Indeed, the Board at Washington seem to have been 
wanting in their usual safe policy in regard to this matter. 
They ventured to send out more emigrants than their resources 
authorized. Thus a large debt was contracted, which the 
society had not the means of liquidating; and to increase their 
embarrassment, the demands on the society's treasury from 
Liberia, on account of the failure of the rice crops, were large 
and unexpected, and were entirely beyond the resources of the 
Board to meet. This pecuniary embarrassment was more 
unfavourable to the Colonization Society than any thing which 
had before occurred ; and for a while the affairs of the society 
seemed to stand still, if not to retrograde. Other events and cir- 
cumstances conspired with their heavy debt, to spread a cloud 
of discouragement over the prospects of the society, which, as 
we shall see, was not dissipated for several years. 

The colony, by the resignation of Dr. Mechlin, was left 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 443 

without an agent; and the efforts of the Board, as has been 
mentioned before, were, for some time, unsuccessful. 

The Board, however, had, at this time, in this country, agents 
in whom they placed the utmost confidence, and by whose 
public addresses, and publications from the press, much was 
done to enlighten the public mind on the subject of coloniza- 
tion. In New York, and the New England States, they had 
the Rev. Joshua N. Danforth, and in the south-west, J. G. Bir- 
ney, Esq. Besides these, the Rev. Cyril Pearl had done much 
for the cause in New England by his addresses and writings; 
and Mr. R. S. Finley, who had entered into the service of the 
Colonization Society of New York, was very active, and greatly 
promoted the cause of colonization by his pubHc addresses. 
The indefatigable labours and exertions of Elliott Cresson, in 
Great Britain, to circulate correct information, and to collect 
funds for the society, have already been noticed. 

No event of modern times was in its nature more momentous, 
than the act of the British Parliament, by which provision was 
made for the emancipation of all the slaves in the British colo- 
nies in a very short time; and by which twenty millions sterling 
were appropriated to remunerate the slave-holders for their loss. 

It is pleasing to know and record, that now, after a full eman- 
cipation has taken place for some time, no public disturbance 
has occurred among the slaves; and, although, in some places, 
difficulties have arisen between the labourers and the employers, 
in regard to the price of labour, or the proper wages which 
should be allowed the emancipated slaves; yet this is a matter 
which, in time, will regulate itself, as it does in all civilized 
communities. And in some of the smaller islands, although 
the whole were completely emancipated at once, yet every thing 
went on in a pleasant and orderly manner; and property had 
risen in value many per cent.; so that the masters were actually 
made richer by the emancipation of their slaves, independently 
of the remuneration in money for their loss. Still our expe- 
rience is too short, and our information too imperfect, to form a 
correct judgment respecting this great effort of benevolence, 
and this laudable attempt to raise a large body of our race from 
a state of degradation and abject bondage, to the privileges and 
liberties of free citizens. Every true philanthropist must wish 
that the scheme may be attended with complete and permanent 



444 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION 

The emancipation of the slaves in the West Indies by the 
British Government, gave an impulse to the Abolitionists of this 
country, which was felt from one end of the Union to the other. 
It was judged, that an anti-slavery spirit, like that which per- 
vaded England and Scotland, could be enkindled in this coun- 
try; and that by pouring in petitions from all quarters into 
Congress, the same effects would be produced as in Great Britain ; 
and that by the force of public opinion strongly expressed, Con- 
gress would be forced to adopt measures to bring about the 
liberation of all slaves in this country, as had been done in the 
British colonies. Agents therefore were multiplied, and went 
into every place where they could gain admission, and by vehe- 
ment addresses endeavoured to stir up the people. The press 
also was put largely into requisition, and books and pamphlets 
were multiplied, all calculated to expose the evils of domestic 
slavery. In selecting matter for publication, it often happened 
that the leaders of the Anti-Slavery Society were imposed on 
by narratives purely fictitious; fabricated by some designing 
villain, to answer his own purposes; and in the public state- 
ment of the condition of the Southern States, the facts were 
more frequently exaggerated and distorted in a shameful man- 
ner; and isolated facts were set forth with all their revolting 
circumstances, just as though they were a fair specimen of com- 
mon occurrences. The anti-slavery societies in Great Britain, 
male and female, having accomplished the great object of uni- 
versal emancipation in their own colonies, thought that they 
might now turn their attention to the United States, and aid the 
abolitionists here in their work. Accordingly, one of their 
popular declaimers, George Thompson, was sent over to Ame- 
rica, supported, it was said, by a society of benevolent ladies in 
Glasgow. This man, however, found things less favourable 
than was anticipated; even in the States which hold no slaves, 
he found the majority of the people strongly opposed to the 
abolition excitement, and the measures which tliey adopted; 
and almost every where, the population were ready to put 
down anti-slavery meetings by violence and tumult. This 
arose from a vague idea, pretty widely circulated, that the 
course pursued by the abolitionists tended to destroy the Union 
of these States. Even in the quiet and peaceable city of Phila- 
delphia, mobs have arisen with great violence, and disturbed 
anti-slavery meetings, and even set fire, publicly, to buildings 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATIOX. 445 

in which they were permitted to be held. But, as might have 
been foreseen, all these lawless proceedings rather promoted 
than obstructed the object which they were intended to put 
down. Conscientious men, not originally of their party, seeing 
with what violence and injustice the abolitionists were treated, 
sympathized so strongly with them, that from becoming first 
their defenders, they became soon imbued with their spirit, and 
thus their ranks were filled by men, who, had it not been for 
the injustice and violence of mobs, would never have been 
associated with them. 

Mr. Thompson, after some months' trial, found that little 
could be effected here by his fervid eloquence: for even in the 
city of New York his person was not safe in any public hotel ; 
and as to the slave-holding States, his appearance there would 
have been instantly the signal for his death. He therefore 
made a precipitate retreat, and returned to report his success or 
want of success to the good old Scottish ladies, who in their zeal 
for suffering humanity had sent him to America. 

The true state of things in the United States was overlooked 
by the abolitionists at home and abroad. They acted as if Con- 
gress might be influened by public opinion, expressed in nume- 
rous petitions, like the British Parliament, not considering that 
by the Constitution of the United States, Congress has no power 
to legislate on the subject of slavery. This power belongs ex- 
clusively to the States, respectively, each of which can do just 
what it pleases with the slaves within its jurisdiction. 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

COLONIZATION SOCIETIES OF PENNSYLVANIA AND NEW YORK. 

The account of the formation of the Young Men's Colonization 
Society of Pennsylvania, is contained in the following docu- 
ment, drawn up and published by one of their leading and 
active members, Elliott Cresson, Esq. 

"The Young Men's Colonization Society of Pennsylvania, 
38 



446 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

was organized in the month of April last, by the adoption of a 
constitution and the election of a board of managers. To this 
measure its members were determined by the following consi- 
derations: 1. A belief that a direct appeal should be made to 
the benevolence and Christian zeal of the wealthy and populous 
capital of Pennsylvania, and of the State at large, in favour of 
the establishment of a new colony on the coast of Africa. 
2. The necessity of prompt measures being taken to carry into 
effect the testamentary bequest of Dr. Aylett Hawes, of Virgi- 
nia, by which he manumitted more than one hundred slaves, 
on condition of their being sent to Liberia. Acting as auxiliary 
to the parent Board at Washington, this society proposes to carry 
into practice in the new colony, certain principles of political 
economy, which will meet with the approbation of all unpreju- 
diced minds. This will be done by fostering with more care 
than hitherto, the agricultural interest; checking the deteriorating 
influence of petty and itinerant traffickers; maintaining the virtue 
of sobriety, the nurse and parent of so many other virtues, by 
obtaining from the colonists a pledge of abstinence from the use 
of ardent spirits; and by withholding all the common tempta- 
tions and means for carrying on war, or for engaging in any 
aggressive steps with the native population of Africa. 

"The announcement of these views and intentions, at several 
successive public meetings, at the same time that the cause of 
colonization in general was ably advocated, made a highly 
favourable impression on the community. The results were 
shown in the addition of several hundred members to the 
society, and the collection of several thousand dollars towards 
carrying its contemplated measures into effect. 

•' The better to ascertain the precise conditions on which free- 
dom was granted by Dr. Hawes to his slaves, and especially 
how far the laws of the state of Virginia would apply to them 
in case of any delay in sending them to Africa, a commission, 
consisting of Messrs. Cresson and Naylor, was despatched for 
this purpose by the board of managers. These gentlemen were 
also authorized to confer, on their way to Virginia, with the 
Board of the American Colonization Society at Washington; 
and, as the latter was unable, for want of funds, to carry into 
effect the bequest of Dr. Hawes, to obtain from them due powers 
to act in the matter. 

"In conformity with their instructions, (by resolutions of the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 447 

board of managers,) the commission proceeded to Virginia, and 
visited, in the first place, the connty town of Rappahannock, 
where they procured from the records a copy of th^ will of Dr. 
Hawes. Thence they went to the residence of one of the special 
executors, Howard F. Thornton, Esq., on whose plantation 
were, at the time, resident seventy-eight of the future emigrants. 
Of these, forty were males, and thirty-eight were females, of 
various ages, from sixty down to two years of age. Many of 
the men are well versed in various handicraft employments, 
four of them being blacksmiths, two carpenters, two shoe- 
makers, two stone-masons, and one weaver. 'Most of them 
are very intelligent; some of them can read and write, and all 
of excellent characters. Domestic manufactures have been the 
constant employment of many of the females, and we are as- 
sured that they have arrived at great perfection in them ; besides, 
nearly one-half of them are accomplished seamstresses. In addi- 
tion to the slaves above mentioned, the husband of one of them, 
living in the neighbourhood, has been kindly liberated by his 
master, the Rev. Francis Thornton, to accompany his family to 
Liberia. He is a carpenter of most excellent character, hardy 
and hale, and one of the best workmen in the place; he has a 
large quantity of tools, and will be a valuable acquisition to 
the colony. His master is a warm and devoted colonizationist, 
and to him we are indebted for much valuable information 
relative to our mission, as well as for many other favours kindly 
rendered us.'* 

"The thirty-one coloured persons under the care of Mr. 
Hawes, forming the other division of the slaves manumitted by 
Dr. Hawes, were represented to the commission as all willing 
and desirous of going to Liberia. The greater part of the whole 
number are members of the Baptist church. They are indus- 
trious and temperate, have always been kindly and tenderly 
taken care of, and abundantly supplied with every thing that 
could make them comfortable. 'We attended,' says the com- 
mission, 'at one of their religious meetings, and were greatly 
gratified by their exercises. We submitted to them our project 
of making them a separate establishment in Africa, and it met 
with their, their master's, and friends' entire approbation. We 
conversed with them upon their future prospects in Africa, ex- 
plained to them the situation of the country, and informed them 

♦Report of the Comraissioa. 



44S HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

of its products, resources, and the capabilities of its soil, an- 
swered their inquiries, and were equally gratified and surprised 
at their intelligence. Upon the whole, we think them eminently 
fitted for good colonists. Possessing among themselves all the 
resources of a little community, we believe that they will ably 
perform their duty. Let us, therefore, be not remiss in the per- 
formance of ours; and, under the favour of Providence, the 
success of the experiment cannot long remain problematical.'* 

"The next step in the discharge of their delegated trust was 
for the commission to ascertain fully the sentiments and views 
of the parent Board at Washington, respecting the conditions 
on which the Young Men's Colonization Society of Pennsyl- 
vania should charge itself with the embarkation and transporta- 
tion to Africa of the liberated slaves of Dr. Hawes, and with 
the guardianship of these people when settled there. The final 
result was an acquiescence in the resolution of the Board at 
Washington by the society in Pennsylvania. This resolution 
is as follows: 

"'That the Young Men's Colonization Society of Pennsylva- 
nia be informed, that, as auxiliary to this, [the American Colo- 
nization Society,] the slaves of the late Dr. Hawes will be trans- 
ferred to them, to be sent to Liberia, and supported there by 
them, in a separate settlement or community under the superin- 
tendence of such agent, and of such local laws or regulations 
as may be adopted by the said society, and approved of by the 
Board; but said community to be considered as a part of the 
colony of Liberia, and subject to the general laws of the colony, 
in all respects, as the citizens now there; and that so soon as 
said society shall signify their acceptance of said conditions, the 
said slaves shall be formally transferred to them, together with 
the sura left for their transportation by the will of Dr. Hawes.' 

"In acceding to this resolution, the Pennsylvania society ex- 
pressly stipulated for the right of making such modifications 
and reforms of existing laws as to enable it, in the new colony, 
to give more encouragement to agriculture, to prohibit the im- 
portation, manufacture, and sale of ardent spirit, and to adopt 

* " It ought to quicken the zeal and benevolence of the friends of humanity to 
know, that during the short career of this society, many offers of large bodies 
of slaves have been made to it from several Southern States— the owners gene. 
rously offering their gratuitous emancipation, so soon as we could extend to them 
the boon of colonization." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 449 

an improved plan for supplying the public stores, and for the 
issue, by gift or sale, of their contents to the coloured and native 
inhabitants. These reservations have been admitted by the 
parent Board. It was also understood by the two Boards, (at 
Washington and Philadelphia,) that in case the preparations at 
Bassa Cove, for the reception of the new emigrants sent out by the 
Pennsylvania Society, should not be sufficiently matured to allow 
of their being landed at once, a temporary asylum is to be fur- 
nished for them in some of the present settlements in Liberia. ' 

" The preliminaries having been satisfactorily adjusted, prompt 
and vigorous measures were taken by the executive committee 
of the Board of Managers of the Young Men's Colonization So- 
ciety, to make the requisite purchases of stores, utensils, clothing, 
and other supplies, for the future colonists, and to charter a 
vessel for the transportation of both persons and goods. Suc- 
cess attended their efforts; and on the 24th of October last, the 
good ship Ninus set sail from Norfolk, Virginia, with one hun- 
dred and twenty-six coloured emigrants on board. Of these, 
were the manumitted slaves of Dr. Hawes, one hundred and 
nine in number ; the carpenter already mentioned, freed by the 
Rev. Francis Thornton; a father of a family whose members 
were emigrants, and who was purchased a few days preceding; 
and a little girl, also freed by purchase. In addition to these, 
was a small body of fourteen persons, who had been freed by 
Mrs, Page, the sister of Bishop Meade, and who were offered 
a passage, although destined for the old colony. But for all 
the particulars connected with the embarkation of the emi- 
grants, the reader is referred to the following report, by Elliott 
Cresson,Esq., on the part of a committee deputed by the Board 
of Managers of the Young Men's Society, for the purpose. It 
will be seen that even in this early stage of its labours, the 
society is fully alive to the importance of education keeping 
pace with colonization. 

" It may be well to mention, in this place, that tiie superin- 
tendent of public schools, the vice-agent, and the physician, 
who is a licentiate in surgery, sailed in June last for the nev/ 
colony, from New York, in tlie Jupiter. Tliough young, Dr. 
McDowell has seen much of the world in his profession, as a 
voyager and traveller; and he will, it is presumed, be on the 
spot ready to receive and give such counsel to the newly arrived 
38* 



450 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

emigrants, as will be required by a due regard for their health 
and comfort. 

" The cost of the present expedition is about $8000, viz. 
§2500 for charter of ship, and §5500 for stores and appropriate 
goods. 

" By the terms of the will of Dr. Hawes, twenty dollars a 
head were allowed, and have been paid by his executors, 
towards defraying the expenses of the emigration of his libe- 
rated slaves. 

" The committee appointed by the Young Men's Colonization 
Society of Pennsylvania, to superintend the sailing of their first 
expedition, respectfully Report : 

"That they lost no time in complying with the wishes of the 
Board, and at Fredericksburg, on the 19th inst., found that 
portion of the slaves (eighty-one in number,) which were from 
Dr. Hawes' late residence in Rappahannock county, already 
arrived. These people having become acquainted with one 
of the committee last summer, expressed the most lively joy 
on recognizing a friend in whom they confided; testifying their 
gratitude for the counsel then imparted, as having been instru- 
mental in counteracting the efforts of individuals interested in 
defeating the benevolent intentions of their late master, and 
thus securing them a boon, the very prospect of which filled 
them with gladness. It was a pleasing indication of their future 
habits, that most of them were found industriously employed 
in such labour as they could obtain for the purpose of adding 
to the slender means they possessed. To foster these valuable 
characteristics on the voyage, we purchased a supply of leather 
to give employment to the shoemakers; and instructions were 
given to have as much of our stock of woollens and cottons 
made into garments as circumstances would warrant, our com- 
plement embracing shoemakers, tailors, and seamstresses, as 
well as carpenters, bricklayers, masons, farmers, blacksmiths, 
weavers, spinners, a dyer, cooper, wagon maker, and collier. 

" On the ensuing day, the remaining thirty-one from Dr. 
Hawes' estate in Caroline county, Virginia, having arrived, 
arrangements were made for proceeding to Norfolk in the 
steamboat Rappahannock, the following morning. There being 
some warm friends of the colonization cause at Fredericksburg, 
your committee took advantage of the interest excited, and at 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 451 

a meeting of their young men, a new branch, auxiliary to the 
American Colonization Society, was organized. Indeed, we 
could not but remark, that while the whole South was indig- 
nant at the late attempts in the East, our mission was greeted 
with a warm welcome by all the friends of the negro, embra- 
cing a very large portion of the good sense and good feeling 
of the community; and we cannot hesitate to believe, that a 
steady perseverance in these benevolent efforts, will speedily 
pave the way for the moral elevation and eventual emancipa- 
tion of the large body of slaves held in that great State. 

" The 22d was ushered in by a bright morning, which per- 
mitted many of their kind friends to accompany this highly 
interesting group of one hundred and twelve (including a 
parent who was bought a few days previously, that he might 
accompany a wife and seven children, — a little girl for whom 
three hundred dollars was paid, — and a very valuable mechanic 
gratuitously emancipated by the Rev. Francis Thornton, in 
preference to selling him for one thousand dollars) — on board 
the boat which was chartered for the purpose. Many being 
highly esteemed members, and two of them ministers in the 
Baptist church, they had been organized into a congregation, 
which was joined in the evening in their religious services, by 
the Rev. Mr. Hill, of New England, when several addresses 
were made and appropriate hymns sung. Early next morning 
we reached Norfolk, and the Ninus having sailed from Phila- 
delphia on the 14th, (William Penn's one hundred and nine- 
tieth birth day,) was fortunately descried on entering the har- 
bour; and, by running alongside, in a few minutes our people 
and their baggage were safely deposited on her decks. 

" It was gratifying to learn from John McPhail, Esq., so long 
known as the faithful, disinterested friend of the society, that 
on an examination of our supplies, nothing was left for him to 
provide, and that it was the most complete outfit that had ever 
proceeded to Africa. The emigrants, on finding how amply 
every want had been anticipated, and the commodious accom- 
modations of the ship, — her outfit having cost nearly eight 
thousand dollars, two thousand two hundred dollars of which 
was bequeathed by the will of Dr. Hawes, renewed their grate- 
ful acknowledgments, and seemed to forget the pain of separa- 
tion in the prospect of comfort and independence in the land of 
their forefathers; but above all, in the providential opening 



452 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION, 

thus presented for meliorating the condition of their heathen 
brethren. 

" In addition to our own emigrants, fourteen entrusted to 
the parent society by Mrs. Page, the sister of Bishop Meade, 
and intended for the old colony, arrived, and were gratuitously 
provided with passage and provisioning to Monrovia, by us. 
On the same evening, Edward Y. Hankinson and wife, arrived 
from New York, with an ample stock of agricultural imple- 
ments, and tools for his workshops, just in time to join the 
expedition. Of this invaluable couple, so highly qualified for 
the performance of the duties assigned them by the Ladies' 
Association of Philadelphia, your committee feel almost at a 
loss to speak in adequate terms; his versatile mechanical 
genius, and amiable and cheerful disposition, mingled with an 
intense love for long oppressed Africa, manifested by both, 
eminently qualifying them for their arduous and responsible 
station. The climate of Africa having been prescribed as the 
last resort in the case of Stephen Barnes, late a student in the 
Theological Seminary of Virginia, a passage in the Ninus was 
proffered, and gratefully accepted. Should he survive, we 
anticipate much from his devoted missionary spirit, and his 
mechanical abilities. In the more probable event of his death, 
candour will surely not charge it to his removal from a more 
salubrious atmosphere: a result deemed inevitable by his phy- 
sicians, had he staid a few weeks longer in his native clime, so 
strongly marked were his consumptive symptoms. 

" Happily the return of that day, so conspicuous in the 
annals of Pennsylvania, as the anniversary of her foundation 
and the landing of our Pilgrim Fathers — the 2\th day of Octo- 
ber, was in all its autumnal brightness; and at ten o'clock the 
whole body of emigrants was assembled on the deck of the 
Ninus, in company with a number of their religious friends. 
A feeling of solemnity pervaded the assemblage, and the 
throne of grace was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Howell, the 
Baptist minister of Norfolk — the Rev. Mr. Boyden, of the 
Episcopal church, then made a concise and appropriate ad- 
dress; after which, Bishop Heber's Missionary Hymn was 
sung with touching effect, followed by the Rev. P. F. Phelps, 
of the Presbyterian church of New York, invoking the Divine 
blessing on this beneficent enterprise. The service was con- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 453 

eluded with a very feeling expression of thanks, on the part of 
the colonists, by Aaron P. Davis, one of their ministers. The 
ship having obtained her clearance, dropped down into the 
stream at noon, and went to sea early on the morning of the 
26th, with a fine leading breeze. Late on the preceding even- 
ing, we took our final leave of our protegees; and, as the 
charge has been so frequently brought against the society, that 
the objects of its bounty are coerced away, we took much 
pains to ascertain their real sentiments. But even on the eve 
of departure, no lingering regret seemed to oppress them. They 
acknowledged with great apparent sincerity, their deep sense of 
the kindness extended towards them last summer, in our send- 
ing down a committee, whose frank exposition of the disad- 
vantages, as well as advantages of their new mode of life, had 
relieved their minds from the fears artfully excited by the ene- 
mies of colonization; and on reminding them of the threats 
that we intended to sell them to the slavers, the loud laugh of 
derision, at once evinced their contempt for the charge, and 
their confidence in our friendship and good faith. 

"Your committee cannot close this report without adverting 
with gratitude, to the signal success which has hitherto been 
graciously permitted to attend every step of the society, mingled 
with humble trust that our institution, based on the principles 
of benevolence and religion, will continue to enjoy the Divine 
blessing. Among these, the selection of emigrants imbued 
with feelings of Christian love toward the benighted children 
of Africa, and the rigid exclusion of ardent spirit, stand promi- 
nently forth. The testimonial appended to this report, respect- 
ing Isaac Walker, one of the one hundred and twenty-six 
slaves whose freedom has been secured by this first effort of 
the Young Men's Colonization Society of Pennsylvania, pre- 
sents, we have every reason to believe, a fair specimen of the 
character of a large portion of our colonists. Every adult 
most cheerfully gave the temperance pledge proposed to them; 
and, as Captain Parsons, the respectable commander of the 
Ninus, does not permit the use of spirits on board his ship, she 
has proceeded on her voyage in strict accordance with the 
principles of our constitution. 

"It appeared to inspire most of these interesting people with 
new confidence, and to excite a spirit of manly independence, 
when the judicious principles, adopted by our Board for their 



454 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

benefit, were detailed to them. Iti that of confining the com- 
merce of the colony, at its first settlement, to the colonial 
factory, they foresaw the preservation of the natives from the 
rapacity of unprincipled traders, and winning them to a just 
appreciation of the advantages of civilized life; — a new impulse 
to their own agricultural and mechanical pursuits; — in its profits, 
a provision for meeting the public wants; — and hence the means 
of supplying themselves, at a moderate price, out of the fruits 
of their own industry, instead of being a charge on our bounty. 
We have every reason to believe, that by thus implanting new 
and powerful motives to virtuous action, much will be done to 
conquer habits too frequently the concomitants of their former 
unfortunate position in society. 

" In sending out this first expedition, the great principles 
upon which this society is to act, should be kept distinctly in 
view: 

" 1. Entire temperance in every colonist: 

" 2. Total abstinence from trade in ardent spirits and arts of 
war: 

" 3. An immediate Christian influence and operation upon 
surrounding heathen: 

"All designed to accomplish the second article of our consti- 
tution, — 'to provide for civilizing and christianizing Africa, 
through the direct instrumentality of coloured emigrants from 
the United States.' 

"And, under the belief that this institution, if adequately 
supported, will confer upon the African race an inestimable 
blessing, and secure a salubrious and prosperous home for 
thousands of slaves, whose benevolent masters are now pre- 
paring them for the rational enjoyment of liberty; but more 
especially at this juncture, to meet the pressing solicitations, 
and secure the liberty of a body of colonists of high character 
in Georgia, long anxious to emigrate to Africa, we earnestly 
and affectionately solicit the patronage of our fellow-citizens, 
to enable us to comply with their wishes, — strengthen the colony 
now sent forth, — present a new barrier against the prosecution 
of the slave-trade,— and hasten the regeneration of that long 
oppressed continent. 

" On behalf of the committee. 

Elliott Cresson. 

^'October 31, 1834." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 455 

On the 24th of October, 1834, an oration, replete with sound 
sentiment and varied learning, was delivered before this society 
in St. Paul's church, Philadelphia, by J. R. Tyson, from which 
it will be gratifying to our readers to peruse a few extracts. 

After giving some account of the origin and proceedings of 
this society, the orator says, "As an association formed in Penn- 
sylvania, guiding and directing the destinies of a colony bear- 
ing its honoured name, it will seek the establishment of those 
cardinal doctrines of government which rendered Penn illustri- 
ous and his province happy. It will imitate the colonial policy 
of its founder, conceded to be far-sighted and virtuous. It will 
infix as in corner stones of the Pennsylvanian fabric, the princi- 
ples which he inculcated, and practised; the principles of tok- 
ration and temperance — of unbroken faith and universal 
jyeace. It will aim, in unison with the parent society, at those 
practical blessings to the American negro, and the native Afri- 
can, which it was the great design of that institution to promote 
and subserve." 

The speaker in describing the degradation and depravity of 
the coloured race in this country, appeals to the statistics of 
crime in the state of Pennsylvania, and to a comparison of 
the numbers of whites and blacks committed and condemned 
by the criminal courts, from which it manifestly appears, that 
notwithstanding the multitudes of unprincipled white men, who 
have of late years sought an asylum in this country, and espe- 
cially in Pennsylvania, yet facts clearly demonstrate, that the 
proportion of criminals among the blacks, in this favoured State, 
in which they are by law admitted to all the rights and privi- 
leges of free citizens, is so great, that although the white popu- 
lation, in the year 1830, was one million three hundred thou- 
sand, and the coloured population no more than thirty-eight 
thousand; yet the number of prisoners in the three penitentia- 
ries of the State was nearly equally divided between the whites 
and blacks. The exact number, as given by Mr. Tyson, and 
no doubt taken from the public records, is as follows: "The 
number of persons in the three penitentiaries of the State, at 
the end of the year was five hundred and ninety-eight, of which 
two hundred and fifty-three were blacks. If the convictions 
among the white population were in the same proportion with 
the black, instead of there being three hundred and forty-five 
convicts in the different penitentiaries of the State, there would 



456 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

be an immense and overwhelming multitude of between eight 
and nine thousand! Nor is there in the magnitude of the 
crimes committed a perceptible difference. * * The fact can- 
not be reasoned against, explained, or impaired; and however 
reluctant we may feel to admit the moral inferiority of the 
black man in Pennsylvania, the conclusion is altogether irresis- 
tible." We could wish it were convenient to cite all that the 
eloquent and learned orator says on this subject, but we can 
only state llie facts which he has brought to light, which are so 
clear and convincing that no reasoning upon them is required. 

But before we dismiss this discourse, which ought to be more 
extensively circulated than it has been, it will be desirable to 
quote his remarks on the subject of amalgamation. " In such 
a state of things, it has been suggested, that it is the part of 
Christian philanthropy to break down the idle prejudices of 
Uneage and colour, by offering to the coloured man the refine- 
ments of society, and to admit him to a full participation in the 
endearments of social intercourse. Let those who inculcate 
these doctrines set before us the spectacle of their own bright 
example. Let them, if they can, thus violate all the sanctities 
of feehng, all the heart-felt charities of private life: let them, if 
they can, upon Christian principles, make the invidious distinc- 
tion between the negro and his own correspondent class among 
the whites. An exaltation of the negro above the head of his 
white compeer, would be unavoidably attended with a two-fold 
impropriety and absurdity. The exclusion of the latter of equal 
deserts is indefensible, invidious, and unjust, while the admis- 
sion of the former, places him in a station for which he is unfit, 
and by which he is incapable of deriving advantage. A forced 
and unhallowed union, alike repugnant to reason and to feeling, 
must ever be the parent of infelicity. But the projectors of 
amalgamation, not having reached that point of moral sublimity 
which can overlook these various objections, it may be consid- 
ered as a question broached, rather as a metaphysical abstrac- 
tion, than with the hope, desire, or expectation of ever seeing it 
reduced to practice. 

<' As the negro in this country is, from the causes adverted 
to, curtailed of his moral and mental proportions, it seems rather 
the dictate of enlightened benevolence to form plans for his 
ulterior amelioration and practical improvement, than to seek 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 457 

to render him odious, by a premature, an indiscreet, and unna- 
tural elevation." 

From these facts and principles, Mr. Tyson proceeds elo- 
quently to defend and recommend the plan for colonizing the 
free people of colour in the land of their fathers, as being, in 
all respects, best suited to accomplish the end at which abo- 
lition societies profess to aim. In a note to this discourse, it is 
judiciously remarked, that "there seems to be a peculiar fitness 
in placing the negro in Africa, when it is recollected that large 
portions of its immense tracts are suited only to A/5 constitution. 
The white man will languish and die beneath a sun which is 
congenial to the animal nature of the black man. Nature her- 
self, therefore, would seem to concur with this philanthropy, 
unless it be thought that she designed those regions which are so 
well calculated for the residence of the latter, and for him only, 
to lie waste and uninhabited." 

Captain Nicholson, of the United States navy, says of Libe- 
ria, which he visited in 1828, "It was, I believe, never intended 
that the white man should inhabit this region of the globe; at 
least, we know that the diseases of the climate are more fatal 
to him than the man of colour. They luxuriate in the intense 
heat, while a white man sinks under its exhausting influence." 

I cannot forbear from quoting, in confirmation of these views, 
some judicious remarks of a learned writer in a late number 
of the Phrenological Journal of Edinburgh. "If we look," 
says he, "to that well marked and vast peninsula, called 
Africa, we find that equally marked race, the negro, with 
slight modifications, forming its native population, throughout 
all its regions. We find the temperature of his blood, the 
chemical action of his skin, the very texture of his wool-like 
hair, all fitting him for the vertical sun of Africa; and if every 
surviving African of the present day, who is living in degra- 
dation and destitution in other lands, for which he was never 
intended, were actually restored to the peculiar land of this 
peculiar race, in independence and comfort, would any man 
venture to affirm, that Christianity had been lost sight of by 
all who had in any way contributed to such a consummation? 
It matters not to brotherly love, on which side the Atlantic the 
negro is made enlightened, virtuous, and happy, if he is actu- 
ally so far blessed; but it does matter on which side of the 
ocean you place him, when there is only one where he will be 
39 



458 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

as happy and respectable as benevolence would wish to see 
him; and there certainly, a rightly applied morality and religion 
would sanction his being placed." 

The author of this excellent discourse, admits that very 
untoward and disastrous events had occurred in the com- 
mencement of this great enterprise ; and that among the first 
colonists, the mortality had been considerable ; but he makes it 
appear very clearly, by a statement of facts, that the coloniza- 
tion of America by Europeans was attended with far greater dis- 
asters and mortality of the first colonists, than has occurred in 
Africa. "Their early liistory," says he, "presents an uniform 
aspect, one unvarying page: it is marked by disappointment 
and disaster, by discouragement and mortality. The parent 
and nurse of all the Spanish establishments in America, proved 
a certain burying place to most of the primitive adventurers. 
Of the thirty-eight persons left in Hispaniola by Columbus, 
as the seed of a colony, all had perished in ten months after, 
on his return from Spain. The armament which Ovaredo con- 
ducted thither in 1502, consisted of two thousand five hundred 
colonists. One thousand of these fell victims to disease. . . . 
Of the colonists conducted by Sir Walter Raleigh to the coast 
now forming a constituent part of North Carolina, and of 
others who subsequently followed, not one survived to tell the 
story of their melancholy fate. The settlement at Jamestown, 
narrowly escaped a similar miscarriage. One-half of the origi- 
nal emigrants were swept off, in a few months, by famine and 
distempers. Of five hundred settlers, whom the chivalrous 
SmUh left in Virginia, but sixty were in being a few months 
afterwards; and they, enfeebled by famine, and dejected by 
various misfortunes, were projecting a speedy departure from 
the land of their sufierings and their hardships. The colony 
at New Plymouth experienced like embarrassments. In six 
months after the landing of the pilgrims, owing to the unac- 
customed rigours of an eastern winter, and the fatigue and 
hardships inseparable from a new settlement, nearly half the 
adventurers had died. A great pestilence, they were informed 
by the Indian chief, Samoset, had raged four years before, and 
swept the populous region of Patuxet. To their other calami- 
ties, was added the sterility of a rocky and stubborn soil, the 
productions of which, after untiring and laborious cultivation, 
were always uncertain. The distresses of famine threatened 
them at every step. They subsisted upon fish, with pre- 



• HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 459 

carious supplies of corn and beans, procured from the Indians. 
It is not necessary to remind Pennsylvanians of the hardships 
encountered by those worthy pioneers of the wilderness, who 
landed on the shores of the Delaware, on this day one hundred 
and fifty-two years ago. It is not necessary to recount the per- 
plexities and trials which their situation imposed — their dis- 
appointment and consternation in finding caves for their dwell- 
ing places, and impenetrable tracts of forest in the promised 
land ! With such lights and examples, let Liberia be viewed, 
and with other lights which history sheds, and it will be seen 
that less hardship and disaster, less mortality and discontent, 
cannot be found in any settlement which the long narrative 
of colonial annals records. The concurring testimonies of Cap- 
tain Stockton, a^id Captain Nicholson, who vished Liberia in 
1S2S; of Captain Sherman, in 1830; of Captain Kennedy and 
Captain Abels, in 1831; of Hannah Kilham, in 1832; and of 
Captain Voorhees, towards the close of the past year, establish, 
beyond the possibility of question, its striking fitness for its des- 
tined object. In confirmation of these distinterested and re- 
spectable travellers, are the reports of agents, the letters of the 
colonists, and the evidence of British and French naval officers, 
who have occasionally visited the settlement. They unite in 
representing it as the abode of peaceful content and smiling 
plenty. The preposterous and unfounded statements of one 
or two unknown and discredited witnesses, are entitled to no 
respect from the honest inquirer."* 

* The author refers here particularly to an account of Liberia given in a letter 
of Mr. Birney, from a person styled, the Rev. Samuel Jones. To show how the 
most knowing of the abolitionists suffered themselves to be imposed upon by false 
statements, the following extract from tliis letter is here given : 

" On the fourth day, Mr. King (agent of the Tennessee Colonization Society,) 
suggested that we ought now to visit the poor. We accordingly did so, and of all 
misery and poverty, and all repining that my imagination had ever conceived, it 
had never reached what my eyes now saw, and my ears heard. Hundreds of poor 
creatures, squalid, ragged, hungry, without employment— some actually starving 
to death, and all praying most fervently that they might get home to America 
once more. Even the emancipated slave craved the boon of returning again to 
bondage, that he might once more have the pains of hunger satisfied. There are 
Jmndreds there who say they would rather come back and be slaves than stay in 
Liberia. They would sit down and tell us their tale of suffering and of sorrow, 
with such a dejected and wo begone aspect, that it would almost break our hearts. 
They would weep as they would talk of their sorrows here, and their joys in 
America— and we mingled our tears freely with theirs. This part of the popu- 
lation included, as near as we could judge, two-thirds of the inhabitants of Mon- 
rovia." 



460 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION-. 

In the year 1S33, a number of persons in the city of New 
York formed themselves into a colonization society, not mere- 
ly with the view of aiding the funds of the American Society, 
but of aiding in promoting the great object of that society, 
by sending out colonists to Liberia, and of promoting the pros- 
perity of the colony, by assisting the colonists to establish 
schools and seminaries of learning among them. This society, 
from its commencement, acted with a spirit of energy and wis- 
dom, which furnished a most favourable prognostic of its future 
usefulness. 

In the year 1S34, a proposal was made to the Board of 
Managers of this society to unite with the "• Young Men's 
Colonization Society of Pennsylvania, in the establishment of 
a new and model colony, upon the coast of Liberia, in further- 
ance of the general objects of the Society, and in execution of 
its previous determination to that particular effect." Accord- 
ingly a committee was appointed to confer with the committee 
already appointed by the Peimsylvania Society, to agree upon 
the terms of union between these two societies, whose object 
was the same. Certain articles were soon agreed upon by 
these committees, which were afterwards adopted by the Boards 
of the two societies respectively. The principal articles of this 
union and agreement were: That the basis of the union should 
be laid in a co-ordinate action of the two institutions, through 
their respective organs. That the object of the union should 
be the establishment of a new and model colony, on the coast of 
Africa, on the following principles; temperance, dissuasion from 
war, the promotion of agricultural pursuits, and the other prin- 
ciples embodied in the constitutions of the two societies. That 
the American Colonization Society, to which both these socie- 
ties are auxiliary, should not be abandoned. That the new 
colony should be located at Bassa Cove. That the name of 
the colony should be fixed upon hereafter. That each society 
should immediately appoint an efhcient agent; and that the 
Pennsylvania Society should go on to redeem its pledge, in re- 
lation to the slaves of the late Dr. Aylett Hawes, of Virginia, 
in expectation of the aid of the New York Society, in their 
removal to Africa. While this plan of union was under con- 
sideration, Mr. Israel W. Searle, a graduate of Amherst Col- 
lege, was appointed by the society to proceed in the Jupiter, to 
take charge of the new settlement under the superintendence 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 461 

of the Rev. Mr. Spalding, who had previously been appointed 
the principal agent of this society in Africa. With a view to 
the contemplated union, Mr. Searle was directed to confer with 
the principal agent as soon after his arrival in Africa as possi- 
ble, on the subject of a suitable location. 

In this vessel, besides Mr. Searle, there went out the Rev. 
Ezekiel Skinner, of Connecticut, a physician, as well as a mis- 
sionary of the Baptist denomination; also Dr. Robert McDowal, 
a coloured man, educated in Edinburgh as a physician, both of 
whom were under appointments from the parent Board, as 
colonial physicians. They were accompanied, moreover, by 
Mr. Charles H. Webb, a medical student, under the care of the 
American Colonization Society, whose purpose was to complete 
the study of his profession under the instruction of the phy- 
sicians of the colony, and afterwards to engage there in the 
practice of medicine. Mr. Josiah F. C. Finley, the son of the 
founder of the American Colonization Society, and a graduate 
of New Jersey College, also went in this vessel, who, with Mr. 
Searle, went out as a teacher, under the patronage of the 
« Ladies' Association of the city of New York." There went, 
also, in the Jupiter, a coloured woman from Vermont, under 
the patronage of the New York Colonization Society, who was 
led by a spontaneous determination to devote herself to the 
cause of education in Africa. 

Subsequently to the departure of the Jupiter, a proposal 
was made to the Board, through Mr. Thomas S. Clay, of Geor- 
gia, to take under their care a number of coloured persons, in 
Savannah, who were desirous of emigrating to Liberia. The 
report of the intelligence and moral character of these people 
was very favourable, and it was resolved to endeavour to raise 
the sum of money requisite for their transportation to Liberia. 
Before the union between the New York and Pennsylvania So- 
cieties was consummated, the Board of the New York Coloniza- 
tion Society received a visit from the Rev. Dr. Laurie and Walter 
Lowrie, Esq., deputies from the American Colonization Soci- 
ety, the object of which was, to represent the urgent necessities 
of the parent Society, and to request the aid of the New York 
Society in obtaining funds to enable them to liquidate the heavy 
debt by which the Society was pressed, and to carry on their 
measures in regard to the colony. The Board of the New 
York Society did not refuse their cooperation, but warmly 
39* 



462 HISTORY OP ArRICAN COLONIZATION. 

recommended the agents of the parent Society to the friends of 
colonization in the city and state of New York. 

After due deUberation, and after hearing a very favourable 
report of Bassa Cove, the union with the Young Men's Society 
of Pennsylvania was completed; with this additional article, 
viz : " That thirty per cent, on all moneys raised by these 
two societies should be paid over to the parent Board, for its 
exclusive use; and that the name of the new colony should be 
Bassa Cove; and that particular settlements should be designa- 
ted " New York," and " Pennsylvania," respectively. 

The manumitted slaves of Dr. Hawes, of whose embarkation 
an account has already been given, arrived at Monrovia, in the 
Ninus, on the Sth day of December, and on the next day pro- 
ceeded to Bassa Cove, which had previously been examined by 
the Rev. Mr. Pinney, and also by Dr. Skinner, Dr. INIcDowal 
and the Rev. Mr. Teage, a missionary of the Methodist society, 
Mr. Russwurm and Mr. Paul also, both intelligent and expe 
rienced settlers of the old colony, all concurred in giving a deci 
ded preference to Bassa Cove, above Cape Mount, or any othe: 
location on the coast, both as it related to health, and the fertil 
ity of the soil in the vicinity. Other considerations in favour of 
this place were, that the expense of settling a colony here would 
be less than anywhere else, while the selection of this spot 
would certainly be the means of breaking up a slave factory in 
the vicinity. 

The union of these two societies, having their seats in the 
two largest and wealthiest cities in the United States, seemed 
to give a new impulse to the cause of colonization. The New 
York Colonization Society adopted a resolution in which they 
speak of this union "as an event promising to be highly bene- 
ficial to the colonization cause, and cordially recommending it 
to the approbation and support of all the friends of the coloured 
population." By another resolution, they "approved of the 
plan of raising fifteen thousand dollars in aid of the objects of 
the sbciety." A handsome subscription was made at the meet- 
ing, but the sum proposed was never filled up; and the Board, 
in their report, ascribe the failure to the prevalence of aboli- 
tionism in the Northern and Eastern States, which began now 
to exert a systematic and virulent opposition to all colonization 
societies. In their Third Annual Report to the New York Colo- 
nization Society, the Board make the following remarks: "Much 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 463 

of the delay which has occurred in carrying these plans into exe- 
cution, is doubtless to be ascribed to the persevering opposition 
which the efforts of this Board have encountered from certain 
persons in the Northern and Eastern States, who believe, or 
pretend, that the system of colonization is fraught with evil and 
pernicious consequences to all the people of colour in the coun- 
try, whether held in bondage or emancipated; and whether the 
latter are induced to emigrate to the land from which they 
sprang, or prefer remaining in that of their involuntary adop- 
tion. In short, that the colonization system 'tends to rivet the 
chains of the slaves, and extend to Africa the vices, but not the 
benefits of civilization.' Upon these grounds, or pretexts, the 
persons in question, both in their individual capacities and col- 
lective organization, under the name of Anti-Slavery societies, 
not only counteract the influences and traduce the principles of 
the American Colonization Society, and impugn the motives in 
which it originated; but actually, if not wilfully, misrepresent 
its acts, policy, and proceedings, as well as the sentiments and 
conduct of all who publicly support its objects, or advocate its 
cause. They indiscriminately condemn every measure that 
ever has been adopted or suggested in relation to the colony of 
Liberia; defame the characters of those who have been from 
time to time engaged in its management and superintendence; 
exaggerate every error and misfortune which has occurred in 
its administration or government, and attempt to impeach the 
evidence they cannot refute, of its beneficial effects and pros- 
pective advantages. And all this, avowedly, because they deem 
its prosperity and existence incompatible with their uncom- 
promising and impracticable object, for the immediate abolition 
of slavery in the south." 

The report then goes on to repel the false accusations of these 
men, and to vindicate, by solid arguments, the benevolence and 
utility of the scheme of colonization. 

At the annual meeting of the New York Colonization So- 
ciety, in the city of New York, on the 13th of May, 1S35, 
several very able and effective speeches were delivered by its 
distinguished friends. Among the speakers on the occasion, 
were the Rev. Dr. Hewitt, of Connecticut; the Rev. Dr. Fisk, 
President of the Wesleyan University; the Rev. Dr. John 
Breckinridge; the Rev. Dr. Bethune ; the Rev. Cortland Van 
Rensselaer; the Rev. Mr. Seyes, a missionary from Liberia, 



464 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and the Rev. Mr. Gurley, secretary of the American Coloniza- 
tion Society. We have seldom, anywhere, or on any occasion, 
read speeches that possess more true eloquence, founded on solid 
argument, than these addresses; and some of them are replete 
with the shafts of wit and poignant satire, to which their oppo- 
nents of the anti-slavery society had exposed themselves in 
the assertions and statements which they had made. And 
especially Mr. George Thompson, an emissary from Great 
Britain, had provoked the indignation of all Americans, except 
the members of the anti-slavery societies, by his intemperate 
addresses, and outrageous attacks on all slave-holders, and on 
all who excused or defended them. 

This zealot, it was understood, was in the pay of a society 
of ladies in Glasgow, who, in the exuberance of their benevo- 
lence to the slaves of America, had sent this violent declaimer, 
under the impression that his impassioned eloquence would 
carry all before him; and such seems to have been his own im- 
pression before landing on our shores. But he soon found, that 
a grand miscalculation had been made of the sentiments and 
feelings of Americans ; for even in the non-slave-holding States, 
to which he confined his benevolent labours, he was received 
with little favour by a large majority of the intelligent popula- 
tion; and as for the lower classes, they were ready, every where, 
without the sanction of law, to proceed to acts of violence and 
disorder, which, as they should not be provoked, ought not to 
be tolerated in any country. Mr. Thompson's mission was, 
therefore, a pure abortion. He accomplished nothing towards 
the object which brought him across the Atlantic. Indeed, 
ferocious as was his zeal, he never ventured into any of the 
slave-holding States, but thundered out his denunciations at a 
distance. He seems to have had none of the martyr's blood in 
his veins. This course, in which Mr. Thompson exercised a 
prudent care for his personal safety, was ridiculed with inimita- 
l3le wit by the Rev. Dr. Bethune. Having introduced the name 
of George Thompson, it may not be amiss to say, that after his 
return to Great Britain, he ceased not to calumniate the whole 
American character, except his few friends of the anti-slavery 
society; and he went so far as publicly to challenge any Ame- 
rican, or other person, to meet him publicly, and vindicate this 
country from his accusations. This challenge having met the 
eye of the Rev. Dr. Robert J. Breckinridge, then in London, he 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 465 

intimated, ia a public paper, his willingness to accept the chal- 
lenge. Accordingly, a meeting was held in Glasgow, and the 
accuser of America, and her defender, occupied many suc- 
cessive nights in alternate speeches. No situation could have 
been conceived more unfavourable to Dr. Breckinridge. It is 
doubtful whether he had in the whole audience, one mind which 
sympathized with him in the sentiments which he uttered. It is 
not wonderful, then, that the prejudiced and highly excited peo- 
ple, proclaimed a victory for their favourite advocate. If Mr. 
Breckinridge had met this man before an American audience, 
even in Boston, or New Haven, the verdict would have been 
very different. After Mr. Breckinridge, then on the continent 
of Europe, saw the account of the dispute published with the 
venerable name of Dr. Wardlaw, who presided on the occasion, 
he addressed to that reverend gentleman a letter in defence of 
America, which is certainly one of the ablest documents of the 
kind that we have ever seen; and which neither George Thomp- 
son, Dr. Wardlaw, nor any other Briton can refute. 

The favourable testimonies to the flourishing state of Liberia, 
and the contentment and good order of the colonists, up to the 
present time, are so numerous and uniform, that to record them 
all would fill a volume. Still there is a party in this country who 
are incredulous; and if they can get a partial statement from 
one disappointed, discontented colonist, out of five thousand, 
they pay more attention to this, than to all the disinterested 
accounts given by intelligent men, of known character for truth 
and probity. They have even carried their incredulity so far 
as to talk of sending out a vessel to bring home the famishing 
and miserable colonists, who may be desirous to return and 
have not the means. The colonists in Liberia, upon hearing of 
this benevolent design, make themselves merry with the idea of 
a ship coming out to carry home the miserable colonists; but 
they pleasantly invite the abolitionists to carry their purpose 
into effect; acknowledging that there are some indolent and 
thriftless persons even in Liberia, whom it would be very de- 
sirable to the colony to have removed; and, moreover, saying, 
that many of the contented and industrious colonists who had 
no wish to leave that country, might be found wiUing to avail 
themselves of so good an opportunity as such a vessel would 
afford, of visiting their friends, free from the usual expenses of 
such a voyage. 



466 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

As however, we have here touched on the subject of the 
false reports which have been circulated respecting the colony, 
it may not be amiss to insert a few testimonies of a contrary 
nature, from persons above all reasonable suspicion. 

Captain Nicholson, of the United States Navy, whose name 
has already been mentioned in connexion with this subject, 
writes: " I cannot give you better evidence of the prosperity of 
the colony, than by mentioning, that eight of my crew (coloured 
mechanics,) after going on shore two several days, applied for, 
and received their discharge, in order to remain as permanent 
settlers. These men had been absent from their country above 
three years, and had among them nearly two thousand dollars 
in clothes and money. Had they not been thoroughly con- 
vinced, that their happiness would be better promoted by re- 
maining among their free brethren in Liberia, they would not 
have entered on so momentous a step as quitting the United 
States, perhaps for ever, where they all had left friends and 
relations. 

" The appearance of all the colonists, those of Monrovia as 
well as those of Caldwell, indicated more than contentment. 
Their manners were those of freemen, who experienced the 
blessings of liberty and appreciated the boon. JNIany of them 
had by trade accumulated a competency, if the possession of 
from three to five thousand dollars may be called so." 

Captain Sherman, a respectable and pious man, well known 
in Philadelphia, gives the following testimony. His visit was 
in 1830. 

" Monrovia at present consists of about ninety dwelling 
houses and stores, two houses for public worship, and a court- 
house. Many of the dwellings are handsome and convenient, 
and all of them comfortable. The plot of the town is cleared 
more than a mile square, elevated about seventy feet above the 
level of the sea, and contains seven hundred inhabitants. 

"The township of Caldwell is about seven miles from Mon- 
rovia, on the St. Paul's river, and contains a population of five 
hundred and sixty agriculturists. The soil is exceedingly fer- 
tile, the situation pleasant, and the people satisfied and happy." 

Captain Kennedy visited the colony in 1831, and thus states 
the result of his inquiries and observation: 

"I sought out the most shrewd and intelligent of the colon- 
ists, many of whom were personally known to me, and by long 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 467 

and many conversations, endeavoured to elicit from them any 
dissatisfaction with their condition (if such existed) or any 
latent design to return to their own country. Neither of these 
did I observe. On the contrary, I thought I could perceive, 
that they considered they had started into a new existence: 
that disencumbered of the mortifying relations in which they 
had formerly stood in society, they felt themselves proud of 
their attitude." 

Captain Abels, who was in the colony in the latter part of 
1831, gives this emphatic testimony. "All my expectations, 
in regard to the aspect of things, the health, harmony, order, 
contentment, industry, and general prosperity of the settlers 
weje more than realized. There are about two hundred build- 
ings in the town of Monrovia, extending along the Cape Mesu- 
rado, not far from a mile and a quarter. Most of these are 
good substantial houses and stores; the first story being of 
stone; and some of them handsome, spacious, and with Vene- 
tian blinds. Nothing struck me as more remarkable than their 
great superiority, in intelligence, manners, conversation, dress, 
and general appearance in every respect, over their coloured 
brethren in America. So much was I pleased with what I saw, 
that I observed to the people, should I make a true report, it 
would hardly be credited in the United States. Among all that 
I conversed with, I did not find a discontented person, or hear 
one express a desire to return to <dmerica. I saw no intem- 
perance, nor did I hear a profane word uttered by any one." 

All the above testimonies are from highly respectable and 
intelligent men, acquainted with the world, and well qualified 
to form an impartial judgment. 

The next is from two coloured men, sent out from Natchez, 
in Mississippi, purposely to explore the country, and bring back 
a faithful report to their brethren. The names of these two men 
were Simpson and Moore, respectable coloured men, and one 
of them a minister of the gospel. Their visit was made in 1832, 
and furnishes a testimony more recent than any yet given. 
They say, "As a body, the people of Liberia, we think, owing 
to their circumstances, have risen in their style of living ; and 
their happiness, as a community, is far above that of their 
coloured brethren, even the most prosperous of them, that we 
have seen in the United States. They feel that they have a 
home. They have no fear of the white or the coloured man. 



468 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

They have no superiors. They do not look np to others, but 
they are looked up to by them. Their laws grow out of them- 
selves, and are their own. They truly sit under their own vine 
and fig tree, having none to molest or make them afraid. Since 
our return, we have been in the houses of some of the most 
respectable men of colour in New York and Philadelphia, but 
have seen none, on the whole, so well furnished as many of the 
houses in Monrovia. The floors are, in many cases, well car- 
peted, and all things about their dwellings appear neat, conve- 
nient, and comfortable. There are five schools, two of which 
we visited, and were much pleased with the teachers and the 
children. * * * We found only two persons who expressed 
any dissatisfaction, and we have much reason to doubt whether 
they had any good cause for it." 

Captain Voorhees, of the United States Navy, visited Liberia 
in 1833. He says: "Piracy has not afilicted this quarter for 
some time; and the inhabitants at the settlements, living in 
undisturbed peace and tranquillity, seem to entertain very en- 
couraging confidence in their future security." And, describing 
the kind of people which should be sent, he says, "Such per- 
sons of colour here, in the land of their ancestors, find a home 
and a country; and here only, do they find themselves redeemed, 
regenerated, and disenthralled." 

The colony at Bassa Cove, principally formed by the emigrants 
sent out by the praiseworthy exertions of the Young Men's 
Colonization Society of Pennsylvania, gave promise of great 
prosperity, when an untoward event occurred, which not a little 
discouraged the colonists, and damped the sanguine hopes of its 
friends. As this colony was established on principles of Tem- 
perance and of Peace, no provision was made of arms or muni- 
tions of war for defence. The neighbouring chiefs had, indeed, 
promised that they would not disturb or invade the colony; but 
the promises of savages, where self-interest is concerned, are 
found to have but little binding force. Too much reliance, 
however, seems to have been placed on these promises; so that 
the poor colonists were left actually at the mercy of every in- 
vader; for among the whole of them, there was but one musket. 
When the colonists, alarmed with a hostile appearance among 
the natives, applied to the agent, Mr. Hankison, for protection, 
this man, pursuing, no doubt, the instructions which he had 
received, refused to adopt any measures of precaution; and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 469 

what was more culpable, acfually declined the proffered as- 
sistance of the people of Edina, a settlement oh the opposite 
bank of the St. John's river. All this misguided, and, in effect, 
inhuman policy, arose from the belief of a principle, long che- 
rished among the members of the various peace societies, that 
if men would act faithfully on the principles of non-resistance 
to violence, Providence would always protect them from their 
enemies. This principle was now put fairly to the test; and 
the result, though lamentable, was nothing but what might 
have been expected. The sincerity with which the agent 
trusted to this principle, is manifest from the fact, that he and 
his family remained quietly in the place, while the natives were 
evidently plotting the destruction of the little colony. The cir- 
cumstances which preceded and led to the murderous attack on 
these defenceless people, were these. A slave-trader, upon 
coming into the harbour, discovered that a colony of coloured 
people from America had been planted on the river, on which 
he refused to land his goods, alleging tliat the colonists would 
interrupt his trade. Joe Harris, the brother of King Peter, and 
his most efficient man, both in palaver and in war, finding that 
the profitable traffic in slaves was about to be cut oft', resolved, 
with the concurrence of his brother, on the destruction of the 
colony. For some days before the attack, he and some of his 
people had been hanging about the settlement, no doubt, to 
ascertain, whether any means of defence were possessed by the 
colonists. If they had been armed, it is almost certain that no 
attack would have been made; for the single gun owned by a 
colonist, had been lent to a neighbour, and the houses of these 
two men were the only ones spared. Joe Harris had narrowly 
inspected every place, and having seen a gun in each of these 
houses, supposed that there were two, and that it would be 
dangerous to enter these habitations. The assault was made 
in the night, and an indiscriminate slaughter of such as could 
not escape, ensued. The number massacred was nearly twenty, 
mostly women and children. Most of the men contrived to 
make their escape. Mr. Hankinson and his wife were rescued 
from destruction by the friendly aid of a Krooman, who con- 
cealed them until the danger was over. 

Those of the colonists who escaped, were carried imme- 
diately to Monrovia, and provided with such things as were 
necessary. The agent at Monrovia, took immediate measures 
40 



470 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to chastise the people who committed this outrage. After 
demanding redress, which was refused, an armed force was 
marched against the aggressors, and soon put them to flight, 
and destroyed their towns. King Peter, and his brother Joe, 
were now deeply sensible of the mistake which they had made. 
According to their own account, they had been led to believe 
that those colonists were intruders who had no connexion with 
the colony at Monrovia, and would not be protected by that 
colony. They, therefore, now gladly accepted a peace, on the 
condition of abandoning the slave trade for ever; and also 
agreeing to let the natives from the interior freely pass through 
their territory, to trade with the colony at Bassa Cove. They 
moreover stipulated to build a number of houses for the colo- 
nists, to replace those which they had destroyed, and to restore 
the property carried away, or to pay a reasonable price for the 
same. 

As soon as peace was concluded, Dr. Skinner, then acting 
agent of the American Colonization Society at Monrovia, paid 
a visit to Bassa Cove, and selected a more healthy and beauti- 
ful spot for the town than that before occupied, and proceeded 
to clear the ground, and to lay it out in lots, on which build- 
ings to receive the dispersed colonists were immediately com- 
menced. 

This painful disaster which terminated in the cruel death of 
so many persons, may nevertheless be overruled for the greater 
prosperity of the colony. It has taught the friends of coloni- 
zation in this country, that it is a folly bordering on madness, to 
place a company of settlers in the immediate vicinity of savage 
African hordes, without arms or munitions of defence. Those 
who are conscientiously scrupulous about putting arms into the 
hands of the colonists for self defence, ought not to take any 
part in the management of colonies. Indeed, after this, it may 
be presumed, that no attempt will be made to plant a colony 
any where on the coast of Africa, without furnishing the people 
with arms and ammunition. It would be just as reasonable 
to expect that bears and tigers and lions would not attempt 
to take away the lives of such persons as might be exposed to 
their rapacity, as that such unprincipled savages would forbear 
to murder unarmed and unprotected settlers in their vicinity, 
when a prospect of gain was offered. The natives have also 
been taught a salutary lesson by the prompt chastisement 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 471 

which they received. They know now that all the colonies 
have a common cause, and that an injury to one, will be 
resented by allj; and also that no single tribe of natives can 
stand before the trained bands of the colonists. 

Although it anticipates an event some time future, yet it will 
be convenient to mention here, that the town of Edina, not 
included in the territory originally purchased by the Young 
Men's Society of Pennsylvania, was in 1837, by an arrange- 
ment between the American Colonization Society and the two 
societies of New York and Pennsylvania, transferred to the 
latter society, the settlers in this thriving place, giving their full 
and free consent to the transfer. This must be considered a 
very favourable acquisition to Bassa Cove, and no less advan- 
tageous to Edina, as it connects them with a colony near at hand, 
instead of one at a distance; and while the union lessens the 
expenses of government, it tends to combine the strength and 
identify the interests of both parties, and can be no loss to the 
colony at Monrovia. 

It is proper to remark here, that the settlement at Bassa Cove 
was commenced in the close of the year 1832, before the eman- 
cipated slaves of the late Dr. Hawes arrived. It consisted at 
first of thirty-eight emigrants, sent on from Monrovia; when 
the Ninus arrived, the number of colonists was increased to one 
hundred and seventy-two. 

The American Colonization Society, besides the stipulated per 
cent, of all collections, received from the Young Men's Colo- 
nization Society of Pennsylvania, from time to time, special 
pecuniary aid, to enable them to accomplish important objects 
to which their own funds were inadequate. Thus, as early as 
1831, they contributed important aid to enable the parent 
society to build a schooner of sixty tons burden, for the use of 
the colony. This vessel was built at Philadelphia, and sailed 
from that port, under the command of Captain Abels, with a 
coloured crew. She was called the Margaret Mercer, as has 
been mentioned in a former part of this work. 

We will conclude this chapter with the just and noble senti- 
ments of Dr. Skinner, the American Colonization Society's 
accent " I become daily more convinced that the colonization 
cause'is the cause of God. Slavery, in a form far more horrid 
than in the United States, exists in an unknown extent, spread 
over this vast continent. A general eflfort to civilize, and 



472 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Christianize the natives is the only means. of putting it down. 
Slave factories are established all along the coast, Liberia only 
excepted, from which thousands, every year, are carried into 
perpetual bondage. There is no other conceivable means of 
abolishing it, but by establishing colonies along the coast. 
Had I a thousand lives, I would devote them all in such an 
enterprise as is now going forward here. All the money 
would be furnished, did the Christian public know the facts, 
and what is needed." 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

AGENCY OF THE REV. J. B. FINNEY. 

The Jupiter arrived in the harbour of Monrovia on the last 
day of the year; and on the following day the new colonial 
agent was escorted into the town. His reception is thus an- 
nounced in the Liberia Herald for January, 1S34. 

"On New-year's day, at 10 o'clock a. m., the new agency 
boat, recently procured from the United States' ship John 
Adams, was despatched to the ship Jupiter, for the colonial 
iigent, Rev. J. B. Pinney. About noon he landed at Waring's 
wharf, where he was received by the civil and military officers, 
and the different uniform companies of the colony; he was then 
escorted to the agency-house, where he was welcomed by the 
acting agent, G. R. McGill, Esq. Minute-guns were fired from 
the time the boat left the ship till she arrived at the wharf" 

The following testimony relating to the general state of the 
colony at this period, is from the report of Captain Voorhees 
of the United States' ship John Adams, to the Navy Depart- 
ment. "The importance of this settlement here is daily de- 
veloping itself, in various ways, and is always felt as a refuge 
of security and hospitality, both to the oppressed natives and 
the shipwrecked mariners. Lately a French oil ship was cast 
away to the south of Grand Bassa, when the crew, about 
twenty in number, were kindly received by the settlers at that 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 473 

place, and from which they safely travelled uninterrupted along 
the sea shore to Monrovia. Here the generous hospitality of 
the people of Liberia, (though with humble means and at their 
own expense,) prompted them to fit out a conveyance for the 
seamen, by the government schooner, in which they were car- 
ried to their own settlement of Goree. And on our arrival 
here, I found a French man of war barque, the commander of 
which had been despatched by the Governor of Goree, to ex- 
press the thanks of his country to the people of Liberia, for the 
charitable services which they had rendered their countrymen. 
Monrovia appears to be in a thriving condition, and bears an 
air of comfort and neatness in the dwellings quite surprising. 
Several stone warehouses and stone wharfs line the banks of 
the river; others are building, which, with schooners loading 
and unloading, or repairing, afford an aspect and an air of busi- 
ness common to a respectable white population. All seem to 
be employed, good order and morality prevailing throughout. 
The settlement must move onwards, and with all its disadvan- 
tages, it appears a miracle that it should be in such a state of 
advancement. An intelligent man, about sixty years of age, 
with whom I conversed, stated that he had been here about 
eighteen months, and was getting on cleverly for himself and 
family, and that on no account would he return to the United 
States. It was true he had not yet the luxuries which he had 
been accustomed to in America, but the want of these was 
not to be brought into competition with his rights and privileges 
as a man, in Liberia; for here only in the consciousness of 
having no superior, did he feel himself a man, nor had he ever 
before known what it was to be truly happy. Here only, in 
the land of their ancestors, do persons of colour find a home 
and a country — and here only do they find themselves 're- 
deemed, regenerated and disenthralled,' " 

The whole of this letter is very interesting, and may be found 
in the African Repository for March, 1834. It appears that 
during the year preceding the date of this letter, " the vessels to 
Monrovia, together with their several calls, amounted to about 
ninety in number, many of them, foreign as well as American. 
The natives are frequently giving invitations to the people of 
Mesurado to come and settle among them. The trade of 
Mesurado with the interior, for the last year has fallen off con- 
siderably, in consequence of the war between the native tribes 
40* 



474 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

about two hundred and fifty miles distant. They are all, how- 
ever, in harmony with the settlers. Journeys are occasionally 
made amongst them, and an intelligent youth, about nineteen 
years of age, son of one of the settlers, lately penetrated about 
two or three hundred miles into the interior. He represents the 
country at about twenty-five miles from the sea, as rising into 
high and hilly land, with a very agreeable and pleasant tem- 
perature—the low flat land along the coast being covered with 
moderately sized trees and a thick underwood, difficult to 
penetrate, whilst that of the higher ground abounds with 
large timber of various descriptions, with scarcely a bush, and 
resembling in some degree beautifully cleared groves. He 
was treated with great kindness by all the chiefs and people 
throughout the whole course of his journey. The services of 
the late lamented Dr. Randall, continue to draw forth from 
every settler the most grateful acknowledgments. It appears 
that his directive energies gave a new existence to the place, 
and no one could be more deplored." 

A comparative view of the population of tlie colony at this 
time, is given in the report for the last year, as follows: "The 
number which had been sent to the colony before the arrival of 
these expeditions, (those above mentioned as having been so 
severely afflicted,) was eighteen hundred and seventy-two per- 
sons ; and the actual population of the colony (not including the 
recaptured Africans) in 1832 was sixteen hundred and ninety- 
seven. The whole number of emigrants including the expedi- 
tions of last year, and the recaptured Africans, (a part of whom 
only were removed from this country,) has been thirty-one 
hundred and twenty-three, while the present population of the 
colony is stated at twenty-eight hundred and sixteen. About 
fifiy of the colonists are believed to have been absent in the 
country at the time this census was taken." And to account for 
this mortality, assuredly not disproportionate under the circum- 
stances, " it should not be forgotten that the early emigrants 
were exposed to almost every variety of hardships and suff'er- 
ings; that several fell in a contest with the natives; that from 
twenty to fifty at least, have returned; that some have perished 
by disasters upon the rivers and at sea; that all have had to 
contend with difficulties inseparable from their enterprise in an 
untried climate, and on a distant and uncultivated shore; and 
finally, that neither the information nor the pecuniary means of 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 475 

the Society, have at all times been such as to enable it ade- 
quately to fulfil the dictates of its own benevolence." 

It has already been said, that the annual meeting of the year 
1834, was one of unusual interest. It was so in many respects; 
from the unusual number present — from the high character of 
the speeches delivered — the importance of the measures that 
were taken ; and from tiie peculiar circumstances of the society, 
both in its internal and external aspects. Besides the names of 
those already mentioned as having taken an active part in this 
meeting of the Board, speeches were delivered by many other 
gentlemen prominent in the church and state. Indeed, when 
the present era of this noble institution has ceased to be cotem- 
porary history, it will be found that the records of no other en- 
terprise of this age show a union of so many of the great and 
good, in the land. 

To human appearances, the affairs of the Board, at home 
this year, had come to a fearful crisis. They, however, im- 
mediately addressed themselves to the work of removing the 
burden of debt that was so heavily pressing upon them, both 
by economy and public subscription. The success of these 
efforts were not at all commensurate with the pains taken. 
The reasons of this are well known. In many places their 
agents were publicly interrupted and challenged by champ- 
ions, certainly not of truth. Tliese were, nevertheless, always 
readily responded to, whenever the circumstances of the case 
at all comported with the dignity and seriousness of the cause 
they defended, and the result with candid persons, was always 
such as is ever with the candid, the result of benevolence and 
truth. At the city of Utica, after an address by one of the 
Society's agents, the friends of Colonization themselves, anx- 
ious that the full merits of the cause should be laid before 
the public, proposed to give its opponents leave to urge objec- 
tions. A public debate was accordingly opened, and continued 
through nine successive evenings, with great enthusiasm and 
ability, on both sides. A large number of prominent gentlemen 
of either party conducted the discussion. The audience attend- 
ing, amounted to about two thousand, at each meeting. At the 
conclusion it was resolved, "that this meeting deeply deplore 
the unfortunate condition of the coloured population of this 
country, and commend to the zealous support of the philan- 
thropist and Christian the American Colonization Society, as 



476 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the instrument, under Providence, which is best calculated to 
ameliorate the condition of the free negro and secure the ultimate 
emancipation of the slave." 

At an early meeting of the year, the Board passed some very 
important measures in reference to the internal economy of the 
colony. They re-constituted its municipal institutions — increased 
the number of the colonial council — extended its powers and 
defined them. The entire code of colonial law was, however, 
soon after this time, subjected to a much more elaborate revision, 
by gentlemen of the Board, eminently conversant with practical, 
as well as theoretic, law. Before this important measure went 
into operation, Mr. Pinney remarks, " it is utterly impossible 
for one who has never had the experience, to imagine, much 
less realize the difficulties in our courts. The colonial laws do 
not touch on one point in a hundred which comes before us, 
and the single direction to be guided by the common law of 
England and the United States, leads to endless diflicnlties. la 
relation to the estates of intestates, the rules of administration, 
the courts of probate, the provision and government of the poor, 
&c., we are in utter confusion ; so also in relation to the port 
regulations, the tariff for the supply of the treasury, and many 
other points of vital importance to the interests of the colony." 
Of course it would be impossible for any human sagacity to 
prescribe a code of laws in all respects applicable and adequate 
to the new and varying emergencies of a society whose condi- 
tions and relations were so complex and multiplying as those of 
the colony had become by this time. Nor is it in the power of 
human law to effect a conformity of practice to its own rules, 
in the first instance, any more than it is within the sagacity of 
the human lawgiver to provide for all possible cases. The 
municipal regulations of a new society must be mainly the 
growth of the society itself. The Board, therefore, have wisely 
reserved to the colonial council the power of legislation in 
reference to the "common law" which the colony is naturally 
generating in its own progress — the right to guide, confirm, and 
write it. That they are fully capable of so doing, their records 
abundantly evince. 

Heretofore a great obstacle in the way of the immediate effi- 
ciency of new emigrants, in the colony, existed in the want of 
any suitable preparations for their reception. A great improve- 
ment was made in this respect, by means of an ordinance 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 477 

"for the better accommodation of emigrants on their first arrival 
in the colony, and in order to prevent the necessity of their im- 
mediately clearing ground and erecting houses for themselves." 
The colonial agent was instructed to have a number of small 
cottages erected on eligible sites, the grounds about them im- 
proved, and gardens planted with common vegetables. Of these 
cottages the new emigrants took immediate possession, and 
found a pleasant home, with necessary provisions supplied to 
their hand : a great improvement, \hat not only promoted their 
social comfort for the time, but had an important influence on 
the general health and efficiency of the colony. If any occu- 
pant of these cottages, after a year's residence, wished to retain 
the place, he could acquire it " in fee," by building a similar 
cottage, with improvements, on another site, for some future 
emigrant. In accordance with the advice of the society at a 
previous annual meeting, some direct and efficient measures 
were taken to promote a more general attention to agricultural 
labour than had yet been attempted in the colony. The agent 
at Liberia, was instructed to procure a healthy territory for set- 
tlement, on the highlands from thirty to fifty miles in the inte- 
rior, and to open a road with the settlement: and a fresh supply 
of implements of husbandry were forwarded to the colony. 
Before these instructions were received, the agent had himself 
felt the radical importance of the same subject, and had institu- 
ted certain measures, the object of which was to invite and en- 
courage the people to the prosecution of agriculture, as the 
fundam.ental principle of the operative part of the colonial es- 
tablishment. He had also successfully negotiated the purchase 
of some interior terrhory, having a very favorable situation, of 
considerable extent, and of great fertility of soil. He re-asserted 
the title of the colony to a considerable portion of land at 
Bendoo, back of Cape Mount, included whhin the limits of the 
original contract, but of which the right and possession had 
been withheld by the native kings. Of this beautiful region, 
Mr. Pinney says, "a healthier, or more delightful country could 
not be desired. The combined grandeur and beauty of the 
scenery from Bendoo is thrilling, and the passing visiter feels 
himself strongly urged to take up his abode on the borders of 
the Pissou. Bendoo is a high bluff" at the embouchure of Pissou 
river itito the lake of the same name. It is the point of land 
between the river and the lake which was conveyed to tlie 



478 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

society. Before it, spreads out a lake of surpassing beauty, 
across which to the side directly opposite, is a distance of ten or 
twelve miles. Standing upon the bluff, the outline of the lake 
to its furthest extremity inland, and thence all round, can be 
more or less distinctly seen. Its interior, or south-eastern ex- 
tremity, is an unbroken sheet of water, whose edges are covered 
with a luxuriant growth of vegetation, here and there intersper- 
sed with villages; this is on the left hand as seen from Bendoo. 
On the right, and in front, westward, a multitude of little islands 
stud its mouth, as if to relieve the sudden boldness of Cape 
Mount, which completes the back-ground, with an elevation 
of eight hundred, or one thousand feet. The scene is one which 
painters would love to view. On the high bluff, with a fine 
lake and river abounding in fish, and securing a free circulation 
of air at all times, I cannot believe an infant settlement would 
have to endure half the difficulties from climate, which have 
been elsewhere encountered." 

When Mr. Finney came to undertake the active duties of his 
temporary appointment, he found the work arduous indeed. 
It appears that the whole machinery of the colonial establish- 
ment, with all its appointments, was in a state of great irregu- 
larity, in some instances, of utter confusion. He immediately 
set himself to the business of restoring things to their proper 
order. And the measures which he adopted, and the subse- 
quent siiccess of their operation, more than ratified the pro- 
priety of the society's choice, when they selected Mr. Fin- 
ney for the colonial agency. The wise and comprehensive 
forecast with whicli he brought together discordant and dis- 
severed things, and embraced them within a harmonious plan, 
giving thereby a unity and wholeness to the entire system and 
conduct of tlie colony, and the energy with which he effected 
the practical application of his measures, show that he was no 
ordinary man. Indeed, so well satisfied were the Board with 
Mr. Finney's first despatches, such a remarkable degree of good 
judgment and executive ability did they evince, that they re- 
solved to secure, if possible, his permanent services in the 
agency. This purpose, however, was obstructed by the reluc- 
tance of the Western Foreign Missionary Society, under whose 
auspices Mr. Finney had gone to Liberia, to yield their claim to 
his services. Their refusal was very respectfully tendered, 
and their reasons assigned; but at the same time they relin- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 479 

qnished their present claims, in favour of the Board till such 
time as another person might be selected for the agency. 

Mr. Pinney also found the public works of the colony in a 
dilapidated condition. The agency house and other buildings 
had to be repaired in order to render them tenantable. The 
Society's schooner was laid up and rotting for want of rigging 
and tackle. He immediately had her overhauled, and by 
means of materials kindly furnished by captain Voorhees 
of the United States' ship John Adams, she was rendered sea- 
worthy, and with a trade cargo of fourteen hundred dollars, 
was sent down the coast. For the first time, ardent spirits, an 
article hitherto considered indispensable as a means of traffic 
with the natives, was wholly excluded from the list of her 
goods. From the want of suitable receptacles for the new emi- 
grants, it had been found necessary to remove those which came 
with Mr. Pinney in the Jupiter, in the first instance to Caldwell, 
and then to transport such of them as were undergoing the ac- 
climating fever, back again to Monrovia. In order to provide 
against such inconveniences, the agent erected two large hospi- 
tals, at right angles with each other, on the top of the blutf at 
tiie cape. These buildings, by their situation and the showy 
plan of their construction, present a beautiful appearance from 
the harbour. The importance of a light-house on the coast, 
having been long felt both by the colonists and by strangers, an 
ordinance was passed for erecting such a building at the cape. 
A saw-mill, also, was directed to be put up; as well for the pur- 
pose of furnishing good and cheap building materials, as to mono- 
polize the business of sawing; which was not only unhealthy 
as done by hand in the swampy ground, but drew off labourers 
from cultivating the soil. The public store was found to be 
without trade goods, the provisions were nearly exhausted, and 
those upon the infirmary list had to be restricted to rations of 
rice and meal alone. Late changes in the mode of appointing 
officers, and in the local regulations among the recaptured Afri- 
cans, who were of different tribes, had produced dissatisfliction, 
and they were in a state of much disorder. The financial 
affairs of the colony were in great derangement. The mode of 
compensating officers employed by the society, had induced 
peculation, and orders of the former agent, to the amount of 
several thousand dollars, were held by the colonists, clamorous 
for their pay. Mr. Pinney remodelled the plan of the public 



480 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Store, satisfied the public creditors, relieved the sufferings of the 
poor, made provisions for the comfort of the infirm, and then 
contrived such a method of remuneration to public officers, as 
at once secured the greatest diligence and the most punctual ex- 
actness, by making the interests of those employed coincident 
with the interests of those that employed them. Among other 
things, the situation of the Eboes and Congoes attracted the 
agent's early attention. They were in a state approaching to 
war, from disputes and jealousies relative to their officers. 
Considerable difficulty was anticipated in reconciling them; but 
by permitting each tribe to have its own officers, peace was 
soon restored. It was a matter of greater difficulty to assign 
them a proper location. By a law of Governor Ashmun, they 
were to have been placed at a distance of three miles from any 
other settlement. Lott Gary had placed them, or attempted to 
place them, immediately back of some lands given to the colo- 
nists on Stockton, about half way from Monrovia to Galdvvell, 
lience called the " Half-way Farms," a location very inexpe- 
dient both to the colonists and themselves; however, by mis- 
take they were actually placed on lands belonging to indivi- 
duals. By some neglect they had never been removed, and it 
was now thought it would be cruel and unjust to do so. They 
had the reputation of being the most enterprising labourers in 
the colony, and were making the most rapid advances of any. 
During the preceding year they had left their old town of thatched 
houses, and laid out another on the same territory, near the river, 
of good frame buildings. The agent says, " I could not reconcile 
it to my sense of duty, to leave them at the mercy of the colo- 
nists on whose lands they had built; I have therefore determined 
to make exchanges, even at the expense of parting with town 
lots of considerable value. By this means I iiope to obtain lands 
there of sufficient extent to lay them out a town on the Stock- 
ton, that the experiment which they have begun may have a 
full trial. When informed of this plan their joy seemed to know 
no bounds; and in their efforts to evince it by firing a great 
gun, three men were very severely wounded." 

At the same time, the agent found throughout the entire ter- 
ritory of the colony, a large number of floating and disputed 
titles, in consequence of the absence of accurate surveys. He 
proceeded at once to adjust these and fit the proper land-marks. 
In the midst of such a complication of difficulties, Mr. Finney 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 481 

adapted all his measures with a discretion, promptitude and 
energy, and with a final success, which entitles him to the last- 
ing gratitude of the friends of colonization. 

In relation to the moral and religious state of the colony at 
this time, "I cannot," says the agent, "compare it with former 
years, not having had experience. There is, as in all other 
communities, so here, a larger portion of vice than the good 
would wish to see; yet I am persuaded that a large portion of 
the community are virtuous, and inclined to favour a severe 
construction of the laws. The Baptist church is not yet com- 
pleted, but the materials are now ready, and it is intended at 
once to have it prepared for use. A Presbyterian church is 
under contract, and the walls are rapidly rising. The Methodist 
society are also about erecting a very large and beautiful building 
at Monrovia, their old place of worship being almost useless. 
They have already nearly completed a church at Edina. The 
teachers in our schools are very attentive, and, as a general thing, 
very successful." 

The emigrants who went out with Mr. Pinney in the Jupiter, 
under Dr. Todsen's management, all passed through the accli- 
mating fever, except an aged woman who refused medicine, 
and two very young children. The fever was so light in all 
the cases that hopes were entertained none would be fatal. 
But in this they were painfully disappointed. Mrs. Wright, of 
the mission family, after having attended her husband unremit- 
tingly for three weeks, was attacked just as he became conva- 
lescent, and, in consequence of a wrong administration of 
medicine by an ignorant nurse, she very suddenly died. Mr. 
Savage, a young gentleman from western New York, dread- 
fully prostrated by the fever that had preyed upon him for six 
months before the physicians arrived, speedily followed her. 
They were both lovely, and neither could fail, even upon a 
cursory acquaintance, to awaken an uncommon interest. "We 
mourn our loss," say the colonists, "not theirs." The general 
health of the colony was excellent, and very few deaths had 
occurred. The average number of deaths, even at this time, as 
compared with cotemporary tables of mortality, was in favour 
of the colony. They now numbered about three thousand in 
all; more than one half of whom were manumitted slaves, 
and five hundred of them recaptured Africans; with a territory 
stretching along the coast about two hundred miles, and ex- 
41 



482 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tending thirty miles into the interior, containing two hundred 
thousand natives, of whom two tribes of from twenty to twenty- 
five thousand had vokintarily submitted to the colony, and were 
sending their children to its schools, and capable of sustaining 
and rendering wealthy and comfortable more than one million 
inhabitants. 

The colony was called, on the eleventh of September, to 
mourn the death of one of its most valuable citizens, Mr. 
Francis Devany, of whose public testimony in behalf of the 
colony, notice was taken in the preceding pages.* 

On the twenty-first June, the brig Jupiter, returned to the 
colony, from the city of New-York, with stores, agricultural 
implements, and trade goods, to the amount of seven thousand, 
dollars. Among the passengers, were the Rev. Ezekiel Skinner, 
of Connecticut, missionary and physician, and Robert McDow- 
all, of Edinburgh, Scotland, a coloured physician, under ap- 
pointment by the Board, as colonial physicians. They were 
accompanied by an assisslant, Charles H. Webb, a coloured man, 
one of the medical students under the care of the Board; also 
Mr. Searle, graduate of Amherst College; and Mr. Finley, grad- 
uate of New Jersey College, as teachers, under the patronage of 
the Ladies' Association of New-York city. In adduion to these 
a coloured woman of education and piety, from Vermont, em- 
barked of her own accord and motive, to devote herself to the 
cause of education in Africa. 

* He held for some time the office of high sheriff of the colon}', and in the vari. 
ous relations of life, sustained and deserved the reputation of an honest man. He 
died of consumption. 

About the same time died " King Tom Bassa," of little Bassa, a prince remark, 
able for his good sense, moderation and love of justice ; as he showed himself, in 
several instances, a friend to the colony, his death deserves to be noticed in this 
place. The following curious account of his interment is taken from the Liberia 
Herald. " Two bullocks were slain, one placed at the head and the other at the 
foot of tlie grave, into which were also put two large chests of dry-goods, in the 
same position, also one high post bedstead and mattrass; then the corps, dressed 
after civilized mode, with a hat, two umbrellas and shoes ; then a kettle of rice ; 
two large pots of rice, one at the head anotlier at the foot; two large looking 
glasses in the same position ; coral beads, pipes, tobacco, mugs, decanters, wash 
hand basins, swords, cutlasses, and one hundred native mats, when a general fill 
up took place ; outside the grave was placed a large slave pot to receive donations 
from the pious. As soon as his death was known a general lamentation took 
place throughout the country ; and it is said every absentee is obliged to perform this 
cry no matter iiow many years may elapse before he returns to his country ; it 
being viewed in the light of a religious duty." 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 483 

Dr. Todsen's official relations to the colony terminated on the 
arrival of this vessel. Mr. Finney's health was so bad during 
the summer, that he was under the necessity of transferring the 
active duties of his station to Dr. Skinner, who in addition to 
these was attending to missionary labours, and with his assis- 
tants, faithfully pursued the practice of his profession as a 
physician. His treatment of the diseases of the colony was 
unusually successful. He considered Millsburg as the most 
healthy of the colonial settlements, and pointed out the neigh- 
borhood of some mountains in the vicinity, as an eligible site 
for a medical or high school. As a proof of the salubrity of this 
region he mentions the case of two families living there, each 
consisting of nine persons, who were among the first settlers, 
and had all passed through the fever without physician or medi- 
cine. Dr. Skinner was of opinion that every part of Liberia 
would be rendered more healthy by cultivation. 

In promoting religion and morality among the colonists, and 
in stimulating them to active usefulness, this officer was an effi- 
cient co-operator with the agent. The Board were gratified to 
learn from him, that he found the state of society in the colony 
moral and orderly, in a very high degree. 

" Every obstacle," says he, "will vanish before judicious and 
patient exertion. The glory of our Creator, the good of man- 
kind, the prosperity of our own country, the interests of the pre- 
sent and the welfare of the future generations, glory, honour, 
interest, religion, call us ; and united, point out the path to gain 
the end." 

The State Colonization Society of Kentucky, for the purpose 
of satisfying their people by the most unexceptionable testimony 
of the actual condition of the colony, determined to send out, 
this year, a special messenger for the single purpose of ob- 
serving with minuteness all that was necessary for an emigrant 
to know. The person selected was Joseph Jones, of Winches- 
ter, a coloured man, who proceeded upon his mission, and after 
an absence of more than a year returned with his report of the 
land. Mr. Jones was a very superior man of his class, a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal church, over forty years of age, 
" a man of great observation, intelligence, and candour." He 
bore this recommendation back from Governor Pinney: "Mr. 
Jones' conduct whilst here, has been blameless, and a pattern 
for others, and I trust he will find favour before God and man. 



4S4 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

If the section of country from which he came, can afford ns 
one hundred men possessing the spirit of enterprise, and pa- 
tience and perseverance which he has evinced so far, they will 
bless the colony by their presence." Upon his submitting his 
report to the Board they unanimously resolved, that they were 
fnlly satisfied with the manner in which he had performed the 
services expected from him, that he was entitled to the thanks 
of the society for the great amount of useful information which 
he had, with much toil and labour, acquired, and that the Board 
recommend him to the kind and respectful consideration of all 
persons friendly disposed to African colonization, as a man 
of excellent character, of a clear and vigorous understanding, 
and possessed of those qualities which make a man useful to 
society. They also requested Mr. Jones to accompany their 
agent to the principal places in the State, for the purpose of giving 
information with regard to the colony. He was a sincere, mo- 
dest man, had no set speeches or studied narrative to give, but 
spoke without remuneration and from his heart, about the 
country he had visited, and which he had deliberately chosen 
as his future home — for as a proof of his own conviction of the 
many advantages which Liberia offers to the free coloured man, 
he had determined to return and connect his destinies with 
those of his countrymen in the colony. It will be found that 
one such man as Joseph Jones has done more actual good to 
his kind, than a whole army of abolitionists. 

Although the parent society was prohibited this year from fit- 
ting out any new expeditions, yet auxiliary societies, missionary 
societies, and other friends, did not permit the cause in this re- 
spect to languish. The only exceptions to the rule, adopted by 
the Board at their last meeting, which directed for the present 
the society's withdrawal from the business of direct emigration, 
were two: one was the case of fourteen manumitted slaves be- 
longing to the estate of the late Matthew Page, of Frederick 
county, Virginia, to whom the Young Men's Society of Penn- 
sylvania, gave a free passage in the vessel which carried out 
the new emigrants for Bassa Cove — the other case was that of 
between thirty and forty slaves liberated, on condition of colo- 
nization, by the last will and testament of the late Rev. John 
Stockdell, of Virginia. Their contested claim to freedom having 
been decided in their favour, the Board determined, under the 
peculiar circumstances of the case, to make an effort for promptly 



J 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 4S5 

conveying them to the colony. In the latter part of this year 
also, a correspondence had taken place between the Navy De- 
partment and the Board, in relation to sixty-two recaptured 
Africans, who had been placed at the disposition of the Federal 
Government by the judgment of one of its courts. This corres- 
pondence resulted in the acceptance by the Department of 
terms on which the Board proceeded to restore those unfor- 
tunate persons to their native land. 

The citizens of Albany, in the state of New York, projected 
the establishment of a temperance settlement in Liberia — to 
consist of one hundred new emigrants — to be located on an 
eligible site, at the option of the society's agent, and to be 
called New-Albany. They agreed to raise three thousand dol- 
lars for this purpose, fifteen hundred of which sum was this 
year placed at the disposal of the Board, who accepted it for the 
purpose proposed, and directed their agent to proceed at once 
to the selection of a site and all necessary preparations. This 
was accordingly done. The Board also accepted a proposition 
from the Kentucky State Society, who offered to send out fifty 
emigrants at their own expense, and acceded to the appropria- 
tion of five hundred dollars left by a lady of Kentucky, for that 
purpose. 

By appointment of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Rev. 
Mr. Seys went out to the charge of their missions in the colony. 
A more judicious selection could scarcely have been made. A 
native of the West Indies, he had nothing to fear from the cli- 
mate ; he was acquainted with the agriculture of tropical lati- 
tudes, experienced in business, industrious and persevering, 
conciliating in his manners, and a zealous Christian. He 
visited the various settlements, and in a few weeks established 
several new schools. 

The exertions of the parent society to promote the cause of 
education in the different settlements of the colony, were nobly 
seconded by auxiliary societies. The Massachusetts Society, 
founded on a principle very appropriate to that State, famous 
for the completeness of its system of education, devoted its at- 
tention to the specific object of establishing schools in the colony 
and supplying them with well qualified teachers^ Besides 
others ihich have been already mentioned, the Ladies Asso- 
ciation of New York, and the Female Colonization Socie y of 
Richmond and Manchester, Virginia, rendered essential aid to 
41* 



486 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the Board, in the cause of education. The former sent out, as 
a teacher, Eunice Sharp, an intelligent and zealous female, well 
provided with school apparatus — the latter, sent out Mrs. 
Cyples from Charleston, South Carolina, a lady strongly recom- 
mended by Mr. Grimke. The colony had already done much 
towards spreading the English language among the natives over 
an immense territory, and it was every where regarded as a 
great accomplishment, and had become an object of ambitious 
competition among the natives, who should soonest acquire its 
fluent use. The influence of the colony in meliorating the con- 
dition of the miserable Africans within its reach, was growing 
more and more manifest— not only mediately, as being the only 
possible means of opening the way to missions, but directly in 
its eff'orts to educate the natives who came into the settlement — 
old superstitions were beginning to give way, and habits of de- 
cency and civilization to be adopted. The presence of a regu- 
lar civilized community, acting as a city set on a hill in the 
midst of them, could not but soon enlighten the heathenish 
darkness which had prevailed around it. The slave trade was 
driven from the whole line. The colonists were no longer 
looked upon by the natives as encroaching conquerors, but as 
returning brothers — not one acre of ground did it hold from 
them which had not been voluntarily ceded, and for a fair con- 
sideration — its title to every inch of ground stands as clear in 
the broadest equity, as in the strictest law. In this view no 
parallel can be drawn between the African colony in its bearing 
upon the African people, and the case of the American colonies 
and the American aborigines. In the one case they were men 
of another race, superior and of incompatible nature, encroach- 
ing upon the territory of men whom they could only subdue by 
annihilating. In the other case, they are exiles and brothers, 
returning to their kindred and their native land. 

The cause of African missions suffered severely by the decease 
of the Rev. Mr. Laird and wife, and the Rev. Mr. Cloud, of the 
Presbyterian Church, and the Rev. Mr. Wright and wife, of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church; individuals who, by their talents, 
zeal and piety, were well qualified for extensive usefulness in that 
great and holy work to which their lives were cheerfully devo- 
ted; cut down in the commencement of their labours, they could 
do little more than exhibit, under the most trying circumstances, 
the noble Christian spirit which animated them, and bequeath an 



HISTORT OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 487 

example of influence to revive something of the primitive spirit 
of our religion in the bosom of the church. In addition to this 
mournful array, the society was called to mourn the death of 
two individuals of much consideration in the colony, the Rev. 
C. M. Waring, who emigrated from Virginia in 1823, pas- 
tor of the First Baptist Church, a member of the colonial coun- 
cil, and who had twice filled the office of vice-agent ; and the 
Rev. Gustavus V. Caesar, an emigrant from Hartford, minister 
of the Episcopal Church, and surveyor of the colony. In refer- 
ence to these most afflictive dispensations, Mr. Finney piously 
and heroically remarks, — "Our losses do not dishearten me. I 
trust the church will not be discouraged ; God is about to try us, 
but I hope some good will be found, and faith which shall not 
tremble, though a thousand fall." 

At the close of this year, the Board were under the painful 
necessity of declaring that Mr. Finney's official relations with 
the colony were to cease. "His administration, until disease 
incapacitated him for exertion, was so vigorous, provident, and 
discreet, that the Board feel pain in announcing that the society 
is no longer to have the benefit of his valuable services, as he 
proposes to devote himself to his missionary labours so soon as 
a new colonial agent can be appointed." 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

AGENCY OF DR. E. SKINNER, 1835. 

The government of the colony, by the retirement of Mr. Fin- 
ney, had now devolved upon Dr. Skinner, colonial physician, 
a gentleman whose indefatigable labours as a medical man, 
as well as a missionary, had already won the hearts of the 
people, and who was well fitted by a natural energy of mind 
and aptitude for business, to enter upon the labours of the pre- 
vious Governor, and complete the improvements which had 
been commenced under his administration. For some time 
previous to Dr. Skinner's entering upon the office, there had 
been no actual head to the government, in consequence of Mr. 
Finney's ill health; and it is not to be wondered at that under 



48S HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

such circumstances the sanctions of law should have lost some- 
thing of their authority, when they had no one properly to 
enforce them, and that dissatisfaction with government should 
have been manifested by those who complained that they had 
no adequate government at all. But as soon as Dr. Skinner 
entered upon his office, he found a people as docile and acces- 
sible to motives as any others, and the supremacy of law was 
acknowledged as soon as the people perceived a duly consti- 
tuted magistrate at their head. Indeed a comparison of the 
annals of this colony with the history of similar undertakings, 
will show, that there never has been a new colony yet established 
which was composed of people so tractable, so forbearing, and 
so reasonable in all respects, as those who have composed the 
colony of Liberia. When all the circumstances of the case 
are considered, it might very naturally be anticipated that a 
principal obstacle in the way of the undertaking would be 
difficulties existing among the emigrants themselves, and their 
relations to the Society on this side the ocean. But instead 
of this, we do not find in all their history, a single instance 
of intestine disturbance among them which does not seem to 
have had an apparent reason, and which was not quelled 
by the very first explanation. It is to be remembered too, 
that these people from the outset have been treated by the 
Society as independent men, and admitted to a principal part 
in their own legislation. In this aspect of the undertaking, 
we confidently assert, that the inhabitants of Liberia present 
to the world a recommendation, not only of the cause in which 
they have engaged, but of the cause of humanity itself — an 
example remarkable in the history of nations and unknown to 
the records of colonization. 

Dr. Skinner went to Liberia with a true conception of the 
single direct business of the Colonization Society, the radical 
idea of the whole scheme, and that in which lay the consum- 
mation of its wisdom — the colonization with their own con- 
sent, upon the coast of Africa, of the free people of colour of 
the United States. He, therefore, clearly perceived that from 
this time it was a vital and principal thing in the practical 
working of the scheme, to render the colony in all respects a 
plainly inviting home for those who were to be the voluntary 
recipients of its benefits. 

Under these views of the present state and wants of the 
colonization cause, Dr. Skinner entered upon the active duties 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 489 

of the agency at the colony; and the vigour with which he 
prosecuted the work shows that he was a man of no ordinary 
strength of mind, as he certainly was not of benevolence of 
heart. We have seen that he had previously paid his special 
attention to the sanatary condition of the colony; he had modi- 
fied and greatly improved the methods of medical treatment in 
use before his time, and adopted precautionary measures which 
had the effect in some cases to prevent, and in all to lighten 
the force of the acclimating fevers. He frequently declares 
that with wholesome diet, airy houses and strict cleanliness, 
the colony could be rendered not only healthy but eminently 
salubrious. In treating the fever he relied chiefly upon these 
precautionary measures, together with careful venesection; 
abolishing in all but indispensable cases, the use of quinine, 
which had been the universal remedy. So highly did the 
Board esteem the medical services of Dr. Skinner that they 
felt solicitous he should be able to give his undivided attention 
to them; his appointment to the agency was therefore only 
considered as temporary. He continued to administer the office 
until the latter part of the year 1836, when, in consequence of 
broken health incurred by the frequency of his labours and 
self-sacrificing exposures, he was obliged to return to America. 
At the close of the year 1835, the society found itself nearly 
free of its great debt. This gratifying state of its finances was 
produced, as we have seen, by a steady adherence to the policy 
indicated by the managers in their special report a year pre- 
vious—the business of direct emigration was postponed to the 
primary objects of diminishing the debt of the society, and im- 
proving the condition of the colony— they then cast themselves 
upon the liberality of the friends of the cause, nor did they 
appeal in vain. 

On the 4th of March, the brig Rover, Captain Outerbridge, 
left New Orleans for Liberia, and arrived at Monrovia on the 
27th of April, with seventy-one emigrants for the colony. For 
good character, intelligence, and property, the persons compo- 
sing this expedition were represented as being superior to any 
company that had ever entered at one time into the colony. 
Twenty-six of their number had been selected out of one hundred 
and thirty, emancipated by James Green, Esq., deceased, of Mis- 
sissippi, for their faithful services :— forty-three were from Clai- 
born county, having excellent characters, and carrying with 
them property to the amount of ten thousand dollars. No pre- 



490 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

vious expedition had been so munificently fitted out, and all the 
emigrants had been under a course of education and discipline, 
with a view to their colonization. The entire expense was de- 
frayed by the friends of colonization in the state of Mississippi. 
Among these emigrants were Rev. Gloster Simpson and Archy 
Moore, two pious and intelligent individuals, who had pre- 
viously visited the colony, as exploring agents, on behalf of the 
free coloured people of Mississippi. Rev. Gloster Simpson 
was a regularly ordained minister of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. At the farewell meeting held previous to the em- 
barkation of the company he preached a sermon which would 
not have been discreditable to many preachers who have had 
the advantages of an early and mature education. — " One day," 
said he, "as a friend was pointing out to me the graves of the 
missionaries, ivhite men, who had gone to that land of dark- 
ness to diffuse the light of salvation, and had fallen in quick 
succession, one after another, martyrs to the holy cause, I could 
not but exclaim, ' ! Lord, and shall there not come from our 
own ranks, men to take their places, and preach to our be- 
nighted brethren, the gospel of Christ?' For one, I am willing 
and determined to go." At another meeting he said: — " For a 
long time I had desired to find a place of refnge, where I might 
enjoy liberty and such advantages as I could not here — not 
that I was treated unkindly in Mississippi — I have many dear 
friends there. But it is not possible for coloured men to enjoy 
among white men all the privileges and advantages of liberty. 
I heard a good deal about Liberia, and read a great deal. — 
We arrived at Monrovia the last day of June — there was a 
quarterly meeting on the second day of July — 1 went ashore. 
The heavens appeared to open over me. I seemed to be born 
a second time. Every thing looked kindly. It looked like 
the home for the coloured man. Mr. Moore and I travelled 
about and examined the country — we saw abundance of every 
thing growing. The people looked as healthy there as they do 
here. I have persevered so far and am now about to embark 
for Liberia. I hope to do something for my blessed Master's 
cause there if he spares my life. If death be my early lot, I 
hope to be as ready and willing to meet it on the coast of Af- 
rica, as on the shores of the Mississippi. Brethren pray for us." 
His family was in bondage at the time of his return from his 
mission to the colony; but immediately upon his signifying his 
wish to colonize, the gentleman who owned his family, Robert 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 491 

Cochrane, Esq., executed a bill of sale to Gloster for the whole. 
They were estimated to be worth four thousand dollars. 

Archy Moore was a member in good standing of the Metho- 
dist church — an intelligent, respectable man, who had lived 
without reproach. His family was also in bondage, and were 
liberated by some gentlemen of Mississippi, at a cost of nearly 
two thousand dollars. When told that his family was free, and 
he could go, his joy knew no bounds. Mr. Moore, at the same 
meeting, narrated some of the results of his experience as col- 
league of Simpson, on the mission. "As to our moving to Libe- 
ria, we have no more cause for going than other free people. We 
go of choice. I go to enjoy liberty and equality of rights. As to 
the natural productions of the country, they exceed anything I 
ever saw in all my travels elsewhere. As to the style of living 
among the colonists, it was quite superior to what I expected 
to see. Many houses where I visited looked like those of re- 
spectable white families. I dined at Mr. Devany's. He intro- 
duced us into a sitting room well furnished with carpet, chairs, 
two elegant sofas, and mirrors. In a little while the folding 
doors opened, and we were invited to take seats at the table, 
richly set and well supplied. Some may think I am ignorant 
of what good style is. But I have lived in the first families of 
the country. I lived many years with Governor Clairborn of 
your State. Twenty years ago, I know the furniture of the best 
houses in the west was not better than what I saw in common 
use in Liberia. I go willingly. I have got a living here, in 
slavery, and now that I am free, if I can't, with health, get a 
living there, then let me sutler." 

Another was a brother of the last named. About nine years 
before, he had been emancipated for his meritorious services — 
bearing an excellent character for piety and talents, he was a 
valuable accession to the colony. This man was remarkable 
for an uncommon and very impressive equanimity and self 
possession. He was seldom seen to be out of temper, except 
when attempts were made to dissuade him from going to Libe- 
ria. He said "he could not help considering those his enemies, 
who attempted to do so." He took with him a cotton-gin 
stand, one thousand dollars' worth of agricultural implements 
and mechanics' tools, one thousand dollars' worth of trade goods, 
and about three thousand dollars in specie. He was accompa- 
nied by his wife and six children, whom he had redeemed from 
slavery, at an expense of five thousand dollars. One of these 



492 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

children, a son aged fifteen years, was a good English scholar, 
and had made considerable progress in the Latin langnage. 
At a public meeting held at New Orleans before their depar- 
ture, they all formed themselves into a temperance society, on 
the principles of total abstinence. No company of colonists 
ever departed under more hopeful auspices than this from New 
Orleans. They were sped by the cordial plaudits of thousands 
of the most respectable citizens of that city, and the states both 
of Louisiana and Mississippi. The deepest interest was mani- 
fested in those parts, at this time, on the subject of colonization — 
an interest amounting now to a degree of generous enthusiasm 

an interest that was verified by corresponding action and 

liberality. Farewell meetings with the colonists were attended 
sometimes to overflowing, by the most respectable audiences, 
and when at the last a parting hymn was sung, and an agent 
of the society attempted to speak, his utterance was drowned 
by the feelings of his audience, and the emigrants in silence and 
in tears took leave of the friends whom they had served, and 
by whom they had the best evidence of knowing that they 
were beloved. No more striking proof could be desired, of the 
gross injustice done to the south by the abolitionists of the 
north, than is to be found in the case of the fitting out of this 
expedition, by the states of Mississippi and Louisiana, and in its 
attending circumstances. Here was a large company of eman- 
cipated slaves, freed, educated, and munificently equipped at 
the sole expense of their masters, and we see them leaving 
these masters, affected to such a degree by the memory of their 
kindness, that their emotions could only find utterance in their 
tears. And they left a much larger number than themselves 
in those States, who, out of the same spirit of piety and love, 
were under a similar course of training for emancipation, and 
Liberia. One gentleman in the vicinity of New Orleans, w^as 
educating one hundred and fifty slaves for the colony, and all 
of sufficient age were able to read fluently at the time of this 
expedition. And another, Mr. E. B. Randolph, had given free- 
dom to twenty slaves, and sold his land to give them education. 
In the preceding chapter, was noticed the conclusion of an 
arrangement with the Navy Department for restoring to their 
native country a number of recaptured Africans, who had been 
placed at the disposal of the government by the judgment of 
one of the federal courts. Of those unfortunate persons, thirty- 
seven were delivered to the society's agent at New Orleans 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 493 

and, together with eight manumitted slaves of William H. Ire- 
land, deceased, sailed at the close of May, the present year, in 
the hrigantine Louisiana, Captain Williams, amply provided 
with supplies. They arrived in the colony on the 9th of 
August, in good health. The emigrants were settled on lands 
provided for them and the recaptured Africans at New Georgia, 
where they found a number of their countrymen, and some 
acquaintances. They were hailed by their rescued brethren, 
says the Liberia Herald for that month, " with the most extra- 
vagant expressions of joy." 

On the 29th of June, the ship Indiana, Captain Wood, sailed 
from Savannah, with sixty-five emigrants, for the settlement 
formed at Bassa Cove by the united auxihary societies of New 
York and Pennsylvania. The disastrous circumstances of that 
settlement caused them to sojourn at Monrovia, where they 
arrived in the month of August. By the arrival of these par- 
ties in such rapid succession, the simple natives appear to have 
been very much puzzled. Imagining, however, that Americans 
were influenced to alter their locality on the same principles 
■with themselves, they explained the matter by saying, "Rice 
be done for big 'Merica;" and they hope they will plant more 
next year, or "black man will no have place for set down." 
With the Indiana's company went Mr. Davis and his family. 

These three expeditions comprise the whole number added 
to the colony during the year 1835. The return of the vessels 
brought despatches from Dr. Skinner,and letters from the mission- 
aries and others, of the most gratifying nature. As it respects the 
temperate habits of the people, and iheir strict observance of 
the Sabbath day, every body speaks in the highest terms. Cap- 
tain Outerbridge says he did not see an intoxicated American 
in the place, that he did not hear a profane word, that a glass 
of rum could not be bought except at the apothecary's, and 
that no man in the colony, not even a native, could be hired for 
"love or money" to labour on the Sabbath. Dr. Skinner says, 
that the general state of morals in the society is superior to that 
of most towns in the States; that the entire social aspect of the 
people was amiable and promising in the highest degree. The 
Rev. Mr. Seyes returned accounts to his society here, which are 
so full, and yet so connected and compact, that it is impossible to 
make extracts. He went to the colony, as every body under the 
false impressions of the times went, expecting to find a state of 
43 



494 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

society tumultuous almost to barbarism, and a state of morals 
unprincipled and lawless. Instead of which, he received the most 
grateful welcome of a people characterized by their manliness, 
sobriety, and hospitality. He entered at once into a regularly con- 
stituted state — a civilized and educated society, containing men of 
cultivated minds, conversable men, already bearing the impress 
of a peculiar and dignified nationality. He found himself in an 
atmosphere where he felt that the genius of law and order was 
prevalent as in the land he had left. Mr, Seyes declares, almost 
in the very same words which our quotations from many other 
sources have caused us only to reiterate, "that in five months' 
intercourse, at all times, and with all classes, he had not heard 
a profane word, or seen an intoxicated person in the colony." 
The African Repository, of this year, also contains a number 
of well written letters from old inhabitants of the place to their 
friends here. They are calm, serious, and real productions, 
composed in an earnest spirit, having a highly moral, and, 
generally, a deeply religious character. No one of them speaks 
as though the notion of removing back to this country had ever 
entered the writer's thoughts. They speak like men writing 
from home. It is quite amusing to notice the manner in which 
they received the information, through abolition papers, of the 
miseries of their colonial situation. The reply of the Liberia 
Herald to these publications is very serious and pungent. 
It earnestly entreats the abolitionists to "let them alone." 
After a pathetic strain of entreaty to this effect, and rebuking 
the preposterousness and falsehood of their course, the editor 
thus concludes: "And yet these men wish to denominate them- 
selves friends to the coloured man. How they can justify them- 
selves before God or man, in their opposition to, and abuse of, 
this colony, we cannot conceive. We are at a loss also from 
what motive they act. No one can believe they are actuated 
by a principle of love for the man of colour. Though this is 
the principle they avow, their invariable and untiring conduct 
is directly the opposite of that which we would suppose would 
result from such a principle. But they say, we are unhappy, 
and poor, and miserable in Liberia; and they only wish to call 
us back where we may be happy, and rich, and comfortable. 
But we say, we are not; and, as we are the more immediately 
concerned, we ought at least to be allowed to determine. We 
declare that we believe we are as happy as our calumniators. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 495 

Riches we refer to the great Donor of all mercies, who dispenses 
this blessing as it pleases him; and as to misery, we are not one 
half as miserable as we were before we left America. We do 
not pretend there is no poverty or unhappiness in the colony; 
we acknowledge there is. But until there is none in the United 
States, our enemies ought to be silent on this subject." 

In the year 1830, Captain W. E. Sherman, an experienced 
and pious ship-master, had published a letter on the state of the 
colony, in which he takes notice of the salutary influence of the 
colony over the native tribes. This part of his letter was, in 
the present year, publicly contradicted in the famous "exami- 
nation" of Thomas Brown, a wretched creature, who had been 
for a season in Liberia, and was now in the employ of the Abo- 
lition Society. In reference to this portion of his examination, 
the editor of the Liberia Herald observes: "We are sorry to 
find Mr. Brown so ignorant on every subject, npon which the 
least true information would throw the scales in favour of the 
colony. It is a well known fact, that almost all the tribes 
around here have thrown themselves under the protection of 
the colony, and if any man doubts our assertion, we have only 
to refer to the official records, where the names of the parties 
are given. It is also a well known fact, that whenever Boat- 
swain brings war on them, (this Boatswain was the most power- 
ful and tyrannical king among the tribes, and stood in awe of 
nothing but the colony,) they are sure to flee within our terri- 
tory for protection, never considering themselves secure a mo- 
ment out of it, till peace has been restored. 

"The following will show the names of such kings and head- 
men, all we remember at present, as being under the protec- 
tion of our laws, and subject to their jurisdiction: 

King Gray, and people. 
" Short Peter, and people. 
" Bob, and people. 
"' Willey, and people. 
" Brister, and people. 
" Peter, and people. 

Mary McKinzie, and people. 

Farga, and people of the District of the Dey country. 

Prince Will, and people of Junk. 

Bob Grey, and people of Grand Bassa." 
Numerous slave factories had been broken up, and the ac- 



496 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

cursed trade driven from a region of coast extending, by the 
inclusion of Sierra Leone, over a space of five hundred miles 
in lengtli. "Liberia," says the editor of the Liberia Herald, 
"is a standing evidence, that slavers cannot breathe in a moral 
atmosphere. Their detestable trafbc shuns the abodes of fair 
and legitimate trade, and one colony, established on the princi- 
ples of temperance and peace, sustaining in their purity the 
moral and religious institutions of the mother country, is worth 
a dozen scores of men of war." In this connexion, we shall 
quote from a letter of Mr. Wyncoop to the editor of the New 
York Evangelist, dated Princeton, April 6, 1835: "About a 
year since, I explored the western coast from Grand Cape 
Mount to Cape Palmas, for the purpose of learning the most 
favourable points for the establishment of missions. I availed 
myself of every opportunity of ascertaining the condition of the 
colonies, their extent, &c. 1 learned the following facts touching 
the slave trade — they are unquestionably true. The river Gal- 
Unas is the most extensive slave mart on the western coast. It 
is not within the limits of Liberia. 

"Grand Cape Mount was for many years an extensive slave 
mart. About two months previous to my visit, the natives had 
resolved to abandon the slave trade for ever. They were led to 
take this noble step, partly by their own convictions, and partly 
by the persuasions of the governor and citizens of Monrovia. 

"Cape Mesurado was a slave mart at the time it was pur- 
chased by the agents of the Colonization Society. The esta- 
blishment of the colony broke up the slave trade entirely. 

"Little Bassa was a slave mart up to January, 1834. Two 
tribes, the Fishmen and Kroomen, combined their forces, de- 
molished the factory, and drove off the traders. This place is 
between Monrovia and Grand Bassa. It is still owned by the 
natives. 

"Grand Bassa was a slave mart. There were two factories, 
one on each side of the river. The first was destroyed when 
the American Colonization Society obtained the north-western 
section, and the other when the Young Men's Society, by their 
agent, purchased the south-western section. 

" It was thought by some that Young Sesters was a slave 
mart, but no evidence of it could be obtained. The slave trade 
has never been tolerated between Young Sesters and Cape Pal- 
mas, and for some distance beyond. If there is no slave mart 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 497 

at Young Sesters, then indeed colonization has been the means 
of destroying that cursed traffic from Cape Mount to Trade 
Town." 

The colony had now begun to feel the strength of their own 
resources. A generous spirit of self-reliance, and independence 
of the Board had become prevalent. They took a more active 
part in their own legislation — a new colonial court was 
established — the debates in the colonial council are those of a 
manly and thoughtful eloquence and wisdom — the action of 
this council, on the reception of the news of the Bassa Cove 
massacre, was as prompt, energetic, calm and parliamentary, as 
the example of the best consulting bodies could furnish. They 
were putting up public offices, and a stone light-house, to be at 
an elevation of two hundred and eighty feet from the sea, and 
were opening public roads, and had launched a new large 
schooner, at their own expense. The business of agriculture, 
and the introduction of domestic animals, were occupying gene- 
ral attention. During the year 1835 more than double an 
amount of agricultural produce had been brought to market, 
than ever in any previous year. The new Georgia and Cald- 
well settlements took the lead in this reformation. Working 
animals, oxen, &c., were introduced into the colony from Bassa, 
Cape de Verd Islands, and other places. By a resolution of the 
Colonial Council, corporate powers were this year bestowed 
upon each of the settlements. Liberia had by this time pro- 
gressed to such a degree of civil establishment, that had the 
people left the colony in 1S35, they would have left a city 
whose roads, and wharves, and stores would have remained 
for ages as memorials of a people of wonderful enterprise, and 
of a most respectable national power. 

Several new schools Avere commenced in the colony and 
neighbourhood, this year. Those already established and sup- 
plied with teachers by the ladies of Richmond and Philadelphia, 
and by the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States, 
continued prosperous. Two hundred and fifty-five children of 
the colonists were receiving regular and competent instruction 
in these schools. There were now ten schools, besides Bible 
classes and Sunday schools in the entire colony. But notwith- 
standing these encouraging particulars, the Board felt that the 
colonial schools were greatly inadequate to the wants of the 
citizens. And in their last report they do earnestly appeal to 
42* 



498 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the friends of colonization, in this behalf. The principle de- 
sideratum was a greater number of well qualified teachers. 

About three years previous to this time an institution was 
formed in Maryland, under the auspices of that pious and gifted 
lady, Miss Margaret Mercer — a bright name in the annals of 
Christian charity. This society had now collected thirteen hun- 
dred dollars towards a fund to be appropriated for the mainte- 
nance, clothing, and instruction of two young men, colonists 
from Liberia, at the University of Glasgow, in Scotland, on 
condition that after completing their education they should return 
to the colony as teachers, or physicians. The determination to 
educate them in Scotland, was formed after a correspondence 
which Miss Mercer had opened with Mr. John Ross, a distin- 
guished gentleman of that country. The colonial agent was 
accordingly directed to select the two most promising boys in 
Liberia, between the ages of ten and fourteen years, and to 
send them immediately to Glasgow. Mr. Ross was appointed 
their guardian. This benevolent institution is called, in memory 
of the place of its origin, the " Cedar Park Liberian Education 
Society." 

As it respects the subject of education among the natives at 
this time, we have the following account from the Liberia 
Herald. " We feel proud to notice the commencement of a 
new school for the tuition of the natives, by Mr. and Mrs. Tit- 
tier, (they were coloured persons,) under the patronage of the 
Western Board of Foreign Missions. This school is established 
on the Junk river, about midway between this place and that. 
The account Mr. Tittler gave of the extreme anxiety evinced 
by the natives for the instruction of their children, is truly gra- 
tifying. In the council that was called when the subject was 
first proposed to them, not only a general approbation was ex- 
pressed, but the most solemn assurance given, on the part of the 
head men, that every thing should be done to facilitate the 
object: and in testimony thereof, they immediately pledged 
themselves to furnish as much rice and other necessary provi- 
sions, as would be sufficient for the school. As the farming 
season is at hand, they furnished Mr. Tittler with a large 
house, hitherto used for domestic purposes, promising that as 
soon as they finish cutting their farms, they will furnish a new 
one. They have also put some of their female children under 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 499 

the care of Mrs. Tittler, to learn, as they call it, ' White man 
fash.'" 

The native kings in the neighbourhood of Cape Mount, were 
engaged in a bloody war, carried on with more than ordinary 
ferocity; and King Boatswain was at war with several of the 
more interior nations, who had leagued together to resist this 
tyrant and prince of slave-dealers. Commissioners were sent out 
by the colonial Council to mediate a peace. They were well 
received, but unsuccessful in the first instance, when they were 
reappointed with the addition of Mr. Finley, and on a second 
mission eiTected a cessation of hostilities. They penetrated far 
into the interior, and the result of their mission and of their 
journey of inspection, was published at large in this country. 
The following extract from a message of Governor Piimey, in 
this connexion, as illustrative of African speech-making, is in- 
teresting. " Nearly fifty natives with their long robes were 
around, at our first interview. Zingby, the chief warrior arose, 
and with the interpreter approached near me, and plead his 
master's claim to our friendship. The words of the interpreter 
were written down at the time, as follows: — Zingby say, ' Hear 
him now; He speak King Boatswain's word. King Boatswain 
send him. You and King Boatswain be friends. King Boat- 
svi^ain send him book for you.* When you look him (i. e. 
Zingby with the token) you look King Boatswain. He say him 
fight war. He say Goolah people fight him for America peo- 
ple palaver. Him cut path and Goolah people make war, so 
path be stopped, and American man no get bullock. All ivory 
and bullock come from King Boatswain. Goolah no have too 
much. That way (therefore) Goolah people make path close. 
All America belong to King Boatswain, and King Boatswain he 
belong to America people, (i. e. there is a mutuality.) I be 
King Boatswain boy-true — no more. I be head war man for 
King Boatswain. Let all America live in my hand. I cut 
path — Goolah no be able to keep path close. King Boatswain 
say that white cloth be him heart. This war belong to America 
people's palaver. Goolah man no look (own) bullocks and 
ivory like King Boatswain's man. They fight cause King Boat- 
swain send goods here. Zingby come tell you him (i. e. King 
Boatswain) fight war this time.' 

* This book was a token ; a silver manilia with his name upon it. 



500 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

" Here there was considerable hesitation, as if he was uncer- 
tain whether to proceed any farther. The whole of the pre- 
ceding part had been no uningenious introduction to the main 
object — a request for powder and a large gun. The effort had 
been to work upon our pride and cupidity, to lead us to assist 
in fighting the Goolahs, He proceeded : 

" ' King Boatswain say come back quick. Let Governor send 
him book. If Governor send a book, no make war. King Boat- 
swain set down, only he no want Goolah man trouble Cape, 
and close the path. Interpreter, my name be Kili. I be him 
boy. I live in your hand till Zingby carry book. (I had then 
sent the commissioners the first time, though unsuccessfully; 
they had gone a second time.) Zingby come quick and bring 
money — let the news about the commissioners live in the book. 
(Hesitatingly.) King Boatswain want big gun. He say Goolah 
people make Condo man run, cause he have little big gun.' 

"As our policy and Christian character unite in requiring 
peace, I refused the gun, but sent presents and urged peace."* 

This year the fifth Baptist church in the colony, was formed 
at Caldwell, and the first annual meeting of the Liberia Baptist 
Association held at Monrovia, in October, which was a joyful 
and profitable season. Quarterly and protracted meetings were 
held in the fall, by the Methodist churches, which were greatly 
blessed; and there were revivals of religion in nearly all the 
settlements. A coloured teacher, writing about this time, from 
the colony, and evidently after having seized such a view 
of the true nature of colonization in Africa, that it had inspired 
him with that kind of confidence which grows only out of 
absolute faith, exclaims, " The time has commenced, for the 
regeneration of Africa. Those who are opposed to Africa, 
may as well undertake to stop the sun from rising, as to under- 
take to prevent the gospel from spreading throughout Africa. 
Civilization will dilate itself to the last green verge of this land." 
Who, upon reading this extract, and others from the produc- 
tions of the colonists, to be found in this chapter, would imagine 
them to have been penned by men who were but a short time 
since precisely on a level with the great class of black men that 
are among us now? Nor have their words, in any instance, 

* Poor fellow, he was killed about two weeks afler, in an attempt to scale a 
barricade of the Goolahs. 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 501 

been quoted merely as samples of their style. Passages might 
have been selected from the colonial paper and other sources, 
that, for graphic eloquence of description, we feel to be equal 
to all praise. But there is in all they utter, a manliness of sen- 
timent, a dignity of purport, and a precision of rhetoric, so 
remarkable as to be difficult clearly to account for. Doubtless 
the actual knowledge of the writers, and their cordial earnest- 
ness in their work, give thera a peculiar power of expression — 
but we cannot help feeling in the perusal of their records, that 
Liberia has done something for these men, which we, at a dis- 
tance, are not entirely able to render intelligible to our own 
inquiries. 

The medical wants of the colony continued to be well min- 
istered by Dr. Skinner, Dr. McDowall, and a colonist who had 
recently commenced the practice of medicine. It was their 
misfortune to lose the aid of Charles H. Webb, the coloured 
medical student who emigrated to the colony the previous sum- 
mer. In the following autumn this promising young man fell 
a victim to the local fever, aggravated by some imprudence on 
his part, at the age of twenty-two years. The following is an 
extract from his obituary in the Liberia Herald. "Ardently 
attached to the profession of medicine, he quitted his attendance 
on the lectures at Washington, that he miglit be enabled to de- 
rive an acquaintance with the diseases of Africa, and be the 
better qualified to graduate with honour to himself, and advan- 
tage to his fellow beings. Since his arrival, his exertions have 
been unceasing in attendance on the sick, and his fatal illness 
may be attributed to the zeal and devotion which he uniformly 
exhibited in the discharge of duty." WiUiam Taylor, an intel- 
ligent young man of colour, was at this time, through the libe- 
rality of Miss Mercer, under the care of the Board, pursuing 
medical studies at the University in Washington. Dr. Todsen, 
whose professional skill had been often advantageously exerted 
in the colony, returned to the United States in the brig Bourne, 
in April of this year. 

At no period of its history has the feeling of attachment to 
the cause been so general and enthusiastic, in this country, as 
at the present. The genial truths of the principles of the society, 
elicited and provoked by the antagonisms of the times, being 
now generally disseminated, became the seedlings of auxiliaries 
that sprung up in every direction over the country. "It would 



502 HISTORY or AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

have done yonr heart good," says a gentleman attending the 
formation of the North CaroHna State Society, "to have heard 
the cause advocated as it was, on the ground of its bearing on 
the final removing of slavery from among us." At the anni- 
versary of the New York State Society in the month of May, 
so profound was the enthusiasm of the people that they ad- 
journed three several times, with overflowing houses, and at 
last refused an adjournment till actual midnight, so eager was 
the desire of knowledge, and so craving was the sympathy of 
the people. 

The history of colonization during the past year, is a practi- 
cal illustration of what that wise and good man Jeremiah Hub- 
bard once said. " The direct and incidental effects of coloni- 
zation are not limited to a qualified benefit to the free blacks 
alone, but comprehend in their wide range, the cause of eman- 
cipation, the extinction of the slave trade, and the civihzation 
of Africa." And to this enunciation we will add, what in 
another connexion we have already said, that the Colonization 
Society in the United States is the best expression, and promises 
to be the only apparent security, of a lasting national conserva- 
tism in our union. 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

COLONIZATION, AND THE COLONY IN 183G. 

Three important expeditions were sent to the colony during 
the year 1836, by the parent society and two of its auxiliaries. 
The brig Luna, captain Bears, having on board eighty emi- 
grants, and two recaptured African children under the care of 
the United States government, with liberal supplies of provis- 
ions, agricultural implements, and trade goods, sailed from Nor- 
folk, Virginia, on the tliirdof JNIarch, and completed her voyage 
on the seventh of April. Of these emigrants forty-four were 
manumitted, on the condition of colonization, by the will of the 
late general Blackburn of Staunton, Virginia; seven by the late 
Rev. John AUemong; and five by the late Mrs. Washington, of 



HISTORr OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 503 

Frederick county, Virginia ; while four were emancipated by the 
Rev. C. W. Andrews of Frederick county; six by the late .Tedi- 
diah Atkinson of Petersburg; seven by Thomas S. King, Esq. 
of Portsmouth; one by Mr. Davidson of Charlotte county; one 
by Mr. S. 0. Moore of Albemarle; and two by Mr. A. McNeill 
of Mecklenburg, North Carolina. Several others were free 
persons of colour from Norfolk. A number that were expected 
from the same State failed to embark at this time. 

Most of the Luna's company were young men, several of 
them preachers of the gospel, and one a minister and missionary 
of the Methodist church, the Rev. Beverly R. Wilson, spoken 
of in the last chapter, as having, after a visit and examination 
of the colony, during fourteen months, returned to the United 
States for the purpose of concluding a final settlement of his 
affairs in Virginia, and removing with his entire family to Li- 
beria. His statements concerning the colony made in sundry 
places and before large audiences, in the northern and middle 
States, convinced many that the scheme of African colonization 
merited their decided and earnest support. 

The schooner Swift left New Orleans on the twenty-eighth of 
April, with forty-three emigrants, recently emancipated, mostly 
from the state of Mississippi, and arrived at Monrovia on the 
seventh of July. Among these were twenty slaves liberated 
for colonization by Edward B. Randolph, of Lowndes county^ 
Mississippi. The expenses of this expedition were paid by the 
JNIississippi Colonization Society, assisted by an advance of 
twenty-five hundred dollars, by the liberal executor of the estate 
of the late James Green, by whose will provision was made for 
the manumission of a part of his slaves, and the application of 
a generous portion of his large estate, to aid the object of the 
society. A majority of the emigrants were young, accustomed 
to labour on plantations at the south, and well furnished with 
implements and stores necessary to a comfortable settlement, and 
the successful cultivation of the soil, in the colony. They sus- 
tained a good character for intelligence, industry, and morality, 
several of them adorning, by their lives, the profession of the 
Christian faith, and all inclined before their departure to organize 
themselves into a temperance society, on the principle of total 
abstinence from ardent spirits. 

The emigrants by the Luna were landed at Monrovia, but 
subsequently removed to a new settlement on the Junk river, 
called Marshall, after the late chief justice of the United States. 



604 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

In consequence of the untimely arrival of these emigrants on 
the coast, or from some other circumstances which our know- 
ledge of the African fevers does not enable us to distinguish, 
several of these emigrants fell victims to the climate. Yet it is 
remarkable that out of sixty-two emigrants that arrived about 
the same time in the preceding year, only three died, and they 
were stnall boys "who could not be kept from running out in 
the sun and rain." 

The company by the Swift proceeded at once to Millsburg, 
about twenty miles from the coast, on the river St. Paul's, a set- 
tlement enjoying great advantages for health and agricultural 
pursuits. 

The Brig Luna, Captain Hallet, with eighty-four emigrants, 
fifty of whom were slaves recently liberated in Kentucky and 
Tennessee, on condition of colonizing, sailed from New York 
on the 5th of July, and arrived at Monrovia on the 19th of Au- 
gust. This expedition was fitted out under the direction of the 
Auxiliary Colonization Society of New York city. The company 
proceeded immediately to the settlement at Bassa Cove. Nearly 
all of these colonists were members of temperance societies, 
most of them professors of religion, and many of them ministers 
of the gospel. Among the latter, were the Rev. Mr. Anderson, 
a Baptist minister; Mr. Priest, of the Presbyterian Church; and 
Mr. Jones, of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In the number 
of this company were also a Mr, Hayne, his wife, and four or 
five children, boys and girls. This family were of more than 
common respectability, in good circumstances as to property, 
and had long been free, in Georgia. They were objects of 
peculiar interest to the numerous friends of the emigrants, who 
visited them at and before their embarkation. A farewell 
meeting was held with these emigrants by the citizens of New 
York and others, at the quarantine ground, Staten Island, 
When about to embark, in reply to an address from the vener- 
able and lamented Dr. Proudfit, and the encouraging remarks 
of other friends of the cause, the Rev. Mr. Herring, a coloured 
Methodist Missionary, who accompanied the expedition, re- 
sponded in behalf of the colonists in a very pertinent and 
impressive manner. He declared himself indebted to the 
Colonization Society for his personal freedom, having been 
manumitted for the purpose of going to Liberia by iiis humane 
master in Virginia. He had been to the colony, and after 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 505 

making his observations, and labouring for a time as a preacher 
of the gospel, both among the colonists and the natives, had 
returned to the United States to improve his education, and 
qualify himself for more extensive usefulness. Having for two 
years previous pursued his studies at the Wesleyan Academy 
in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, and in other parts of New Eng- 
land, he was about to return and spend his life in the colony, 
proclaiming the unsearchable riches of Christ on the shores of 
Africa. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the kindness 
and sympathy he had experienced, and especially for the in- 
terest then manifested in the welfare of those with whom he 
was about to take his departure, and in conclusion offered a 
fervent address to the throne of Grace, which (remarks one 
who was present) "melted all hearts and gave evidence of his 
high qualifications for usefulness in the field to which he is de- 
voted." Says the same person, " the touching incidents con- 
nected with the parting scene with this band of emigrants, will 
not soon be erased from the memory of any who were present, 
and the earnest request for the prayers of the pious, which they 
urged through Mr. Herring, ought not to be forgotten or un- 
heeded." 

Mr. James B. Herron, a citizen of Nicholasville, Kentucky, 
much interested in the welfare of the people of colour, and the 
success of their colonies in Africa, took passage in the Luna, 
resolved, even without compensation, to visit and examine for 
himself the condition and prospects of those settlements. 

The full intention of this expedition was obstructed by a 
painful circumstance, which is best told in the following letter 
of Mr. McElroy, to a gentleman of Pittsburgh. " This morning 
I arrived in your city with sixty-five emigrants, destined to 
Bassa Cove, West Africa. Fifty of them were recently liberated 
slaves, liberated only, however, upon condition that they would 
emigrate to Liberia. To get these men, women, and children, 
rescued from slavery, I have laboured night and day for weeks 
past, Vv'ith the threats of certain legatees hanging over me, and 
their fiercest opposition resting upon me. Yet, with the gener- 
ous aid and countenance of some true friends of the coloured 
man and of freedom, I succeeded in collecting the above num- 
ber from the two states of Kentucky and Tennessee, and thus 
rescuing them from coming bondage. And now, sir, it be- 
43 



506 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

comes my painful duty to announce to the public, that while 
engaged a few hours with some of the clergy of the city, in 
soliciting contributions of various articles of food, clothing, &c., 
to sustain the expedition till we should arrive at New York, 
certain white and coloured persons surrounded the emigrants, 
where they were busy packing up their effects, and making 
ready for their hasty departure, and decoyed away ten men, 
women and children, from the estate of Donelson, and four 
from Fisher's, leaving a very aged and infirm grandmother 
whom I had brought along only to gratify her children. Known 
and acknowledged abolitionists, white and black, were busy in 
this work of (what shall I call it?) kidnapping, or enslaving. To 
the public I owe a statement of facts in regard to those persons 
thus decoyed. In regard to the Donelson people, before they 
could be delivered into my hands, or sent from the estate, cer- 
tain gentlemen had to sign a bond in a penalty of five thousand 
dollars, that they should go to Liberia; this bond is filed in 
court. In respect to Fisher's, their owner entered his own 
bond under a penalty of three thousand dollars. This money 
is liable to collection, and doubtless will be demanded as soon 
as this intelligence reaches Nashville. And further, I have in 
my possession a draft for eight hundred dollars, to be divided 
among the Donelson emigrants, not a dollar of which can be 
drawn until I certify, upon oath, that each one has embarked for 
Liberia, on some vessel chartered for the purpose. If one should 
refuse to go, the draft cannot be honoured. There is near four 
hundred dollars left to Fisher's people in the same way. But, 
what further adds to the malignity of this outrage, these peo- 
ple, who are thus led off by those so reckless of what they 
are doing, are free only on condition that they emigrate to Li- 
beria. They have refused, and now it becomes my painful 
duty, my sworn duty, to write the heirs that they may come 
and demand them. It is to me painful because I have every 
reason to believe they will ferret them out. They assured me 
they would even at the expense of ten thousand dollars. Thus, 
while I and others have laboured for weeks to rescue them 
from slavery, in a few hours a mingled crowd of white and 
black, have rendered them liable to bondage as perpetual as it 
may be hopeless and cruel." 

The above is not by any means the only instance in which 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 507 

the abolitionists succeeded in their efforts to frustrate the labours 
of the society, at the expense of decoying back into bondage 
or a worse misery, the liberated slaves that were under its care. 
Miss M. C. Moore, of Hillsboro, North Carolina, a most excel- 
lent and pious lady, from motives of philanthropy and at a 
great sacrifice, had liberated eight slaves, for the purpose 
of colonizing them in Liberia. They were sent under the 
special care of a friend to the city of New York, and delivered 
over to the executive committee of the auxiliary branch of the 
society in that city. The ship being not yet ready to sail for 
Africa, the committee obtained lodgings for the emigrants in a 
respectable coloured family on Long Island, where they re- 
mained nearly three weeks, occasionally visited by some mem- 
bers of the committee, and coming at their pleasure to the city. 
They appeared contented with their situation, and cheerful in 
the prospect of emigrating to Africa: — but on the vessel being 
ready to sail, it was found that during the absence of the coloured 
man with whom they were at board, they had been decoyed 
from his house and secreted from the committee. They had 
written to Miss Moore, that from the reports which they had 
heard of the designs of the society, they "had become dis- 
gusted," and had resolved not to embark, but would remain in 
New York. 

The grief of this benevolent lady, their benefactress and 
former mistress, on receiving intelligence of the frustration, in 
one short hour, of a design upon which she had set her heart 
for many years, and for the effecting of which she had under- 
gone much personal deprivation, appears to have been well 
nigh overwhelming. The following are some extracts from 
a letter which she addressed to them at the time. " You all 
well knew that for the last three years I have been struggling 
to set you free, in direct opposition to the advice and wishes of 
many of my friends; and when at length, through the kind 
assistance of my friend and yours, (Mr. Taylor,) I supposed my 
object nearly accomplished, you are just going to undo all, and 
reduce yourselves probably to a much worse situation than that 
from which we have been striving to deliver you, so that you 
might be free and virtuous and happy in the native land of 
your forefathers, the land best suited to you, and in which we 
believe you would be happier than in any other part of the 



50S HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

earth. I could not liberate yoii in North Carolina, but said 
'if you will go to Liberia, you shall be free.' You all then 
thankfully accepted the offer, and two of you said you were 
willing to remain with me if I could not do well without your 
services. But I told you to go, that I would rather labour 
with my own hands for a support than to keep you in slavery. 
You ask me, in your letters, what I think of the Colonization 
Society; my answer is, just what I thought when 1 took leave 
of you in Wilmington. I do not more firmly believe that there 
is a sun in the firmament of heaven, than that the men engaged 
in the colonization scheme are good men, seeking earnestly to 
promote the best interests of the coloured people, both in this 
world and in that which is to come. You say there is 'death 
in the pot' in Africa. I tell you there is a great deal more 
'death in the pot' in New York and Canada. I know more 
than you do of the climate of Canada; and if you go there I 
have very little hope that either Jane, or Hannah, or yourself, 
will live to see another spring. I knew perfectly well that you 
could be free in New York before you left your own State; 
and do you suppose that I would have made such efforts to 
send you to Africa, if I had not known that you would have 
done much better there? You well know that I have ever 
been the friend of the coloured people, and I feel an increasing 
interest in their welfare; and could I know it to be the will of 
God, I would not hesitate a naoment to leave my native land 
and all that it holds dear to me, and go to Africa, to spend the 
remainder of my days in labouring for their present, in con- 
nexion with their eternal well being. If I should ascertain it 
to be my duty to go, will you go with me? Write as soon as 
you receive this, and answer this question," 

Mr. James Brown, a very respectable colonist, whose name 
we have before mentioned, was this year elected president of 
the Town Council of Monrovia, an officer whose title and 
duties are equivalent to those of mayor or intendant, in the 
cities of the United States. Mr. Brown took a special interest 
in the subject of agriculture, and made a series of laborious 
experiments, and published several circulars, with a view to 
its promotion in the colony. He instituted an agricultural con- 
versation club, also a fair and a museum. In a long and able 
letter to the Home Board, the main object of which is to recom- 
mend the establishment of a farming concern on Bushrod 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 509 

Island, together with a manual labour school for the instruction 
of apprentices, he says, " I will repeat a few things for your 
encouragement. Corn has succeeded this year, beyond that of 
any former time; and cotton also. Messrs. Moore and Simp- 
son brought out a few ears of corn from Mississippi, and as 
they could not immediately enter into farming, but liad a de- 
sire to preserve the seed of this corn, they distributed it among 
the citizens, among whom was Mr. Randolph Cooper, of this 
town. Although his garden is not situated in a very choice 
spot, yet in about two months from the time the corn was 
planted, he presented Mr. Simpson with an ear altogether 
larger and better than the original seed. Mr. P. Moore, of 
Millsburg, tells me he has seed corn raised at Millsburg, and 
that he never saw larger or better corn in America. I have 
offered a dollar for one dozen of those ears, for the purpose of 
sending them for your inspection. The cotton above men- 
tioned, has equally improved from the American seed, and 
comes to perfection in three months. I planted some seed of 
the English or green pea, in my garden, and in about four 
weeks they were fit for the table, and as well formed as any I 
ever saw. But why need I enumerate ? I say now, as I have 
said before, almost every thing that grows in the United Slates, 
will grow here, and come to perfection in about half the time." 

The whole internal economy of the colonial establishment 
.appears to have been making steady progress — good order, 
and obedience to law being every where prevalent. We find 
accounts, this year, of the " anniversaries" of several religious 
societies, infant schools, and other public charities, that give the 
colony the appearance of a long established and well settled 
state of society — and in a good sized pamphlet, an example of 
their municipal legislation, which for phraseology and juridical 
merit, need not fear a comparison with the productions of much 
older states. 

Most of the settlers had returned to Bassa Cove. They were 
assisted in establishing themselves by Dr. Skinner. — Soon after 
his return from that settlement,Thomas H.Buchanan, Esq., agent 
of the New York and Pennsylvania societies, very opportunely 
arrived at Monrovia. He landed on the first of January, with 
abundant supplies for the relief of the infant colony. After 
collecting the remaining emigrants from Monrovia, and the 
surrounding settlements, he proceeded at once to Bassa Cove. 
43* 



510 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

The place selected for the new settlement was in a beautiful 
and healthy region, which had previously been the scene of a 
slave factory from which five hundred slaves had been monthly 
exported. During the last summer more than one hundred 
and fifty town lots had been cleared, and several houses erected 
for the accommodation of future emigrants. Several public 
buildings also were far advanced towards a completion. Not 
a death had yet occurred since the resettlement. " Our village, 
(says the agent) though so recently covered with a dense forest, 
presents a cheering picture of industry, neatness, and order. 
The well cultivated gardens, full of various vegetables, impart 
an idea of comfort and independence, while the broad smooth 
streets, shaded here and there by the palm, with its long fea- 
thery leaves, throw over the whole an air of picturesque 
beauty that is quite delightful. Generally, the emigrants are 
sober, peaceful, contented, and happy. Their number exceeds 
two hundred." 

Whatever is said by a man having the conscientiousness 
and discretion of Thomas H. Buchanan, is entitled to the high- 
est respect. Soon after his arrival at the colony, he thus 
writes: — "I find a state of things here altogether better than 
I had ever anticipated, even when trying to imagine the bright- 
est side of the picture. But with my present imperfect ability 
to detect the errors of first impressions, I shall withhold the 
remarks which my feelings would prompt. I visited New 
Georgia, Cape Town, and Caldwell, on Tuesday last. With 
all these towns I was much pleased; but this term is too feeble 
entirely to convey the delightful emotions excited by the ap- 
pearance of things in the two first named villages, which are 
the residence of the recaptured Africans. Imagine to yourself 
a level plain of some two or three hundred acres, laid off into 
square blocks, with streets intersecting each other at right 
angles, as smooth and clear as the best swept side-walk in 
Philadelphia, and lined with well planted hedges of cassada 
and plum; houses surrounded by gardens luxuriant with fruit 
and vegetables; a school house full of orderly children, neatly 
dressed and studiously engaged; and then say whether I was 
guilty of extravagance, in exclaiming, as I did after surveying 
this most lovely scene, that had the Colonization Society accom- 
plished nothing more than had been done in the rescue from 
slavery and savage habits, of these three hundred happy people, 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 511 

T should be well satisfied." Nearly all the inhabitants of New 
Georgia, were professors of religion — and their town was a 
pattern of industry and cleanliness to the whole colony. Inter- 
marriages between them and the colonists were esteemed quite 
desirable on both sides, and frequently took place — while the 
marriage of a colonist with any one of the neighbouring tribes, 
was considered exceedingly disreputable, and subjected the 
individual to the contempt of his fellow colonists. The inhabi- 
tants of New Georgia this year petitioned the council to extend 
to them the full rights of a colonial establishment. " Again," 
Mr. Buchanan remarks, " Liberia far exceeds, in almost every 
respect, all that I had ever imagined of her. Nothing is want- 
ed, I am persuaded, but a better system of agriculture, and the 
permanent establishment of schools, to bring the people of Li- 
beria, at a very early day, to the very highest point of the scale 
of intellectual refinement and political consequence." 

The labours of Dr. Skinner in the colony, notwithstanding 
all that had been done by his efficient predecessor, were ex- 
ceedingly arduous and multiform. And in consequence of the 
addition of new labours at the re-establishment of Bassa Cove, 
and negotiations for new territory in the interior, his repeated 
exposures brought on an attack of fever, under which he was 
at length reduced so low as to be obliged to leave the colony 
and return to the United States. On his departure, the admin- 
istration of the government devolved on A. D. Williams, the 
lieutenant-governor. This title, and that of governor, had, by 
order of the Board, superseded those of agent and vice-agent. 

The wars among the natives, which continued with little 
interruption, subjected the colonists to great inconvenience. 
Natives under the protection of the colony, were sometimes 
seized and sold to the slave dealers, by whom every effort was 
made to set the natives against the colonists. Nearly all these 
wars grew out of the prohibition of the slave trade by the colo- 
nial authority. By the breaking up, this year, of the immense 
factory of the notorious Blanco, that trade was driven entirely 
from a vast extent of coast. "It is a fact," says the Liberia 
Herald, "known to all who have made any inquiries on the 
subject, that there is not a regular slaving establishment to the 
windward of Sierra Leone, nearer than the Rio Pongas; nor 
is there in the Rio Pongas, as far as we can learn, an established 
market for the avowed purpose. Vessels casually purchase 



512 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

slaves there, but there is no regular market for the purpose. 
Nor is there to the leeward of Sierra Leone, nearer than the 
Gallinas, a regular slaving establishment. Here, (at Liberia) 
there is an extent of coast of one hundred and twenty miles 
cleared of the scourge, by the influence of one settlement alone. 
Gallinas is the only slaving establishment between this and 
Sierra Leone; and to the leeward of us, there is none nearer 
than Bassa," According to this, from an extent of coast of 
three hundred and sixty miles, this trade has been nearly extir- 
pated by the influence of the colonies, and this a region which it 
is said was visited formerly by a greater number of vessels 
engaged in that trade, than now touch there for purposes 
of legitimate commerce. It was partly in consequence of the 
loss sustained by the tribes who had supplied the dealers, and 
partly by the instigations of the disappointed dealers them- 
selves, that these wars, in which the slave trading tribes sought 
to vex the tribes which were under the protection of the colony, 
Avere set on foot and encouraged. James Brown was sent to 
settle the difficulties between the Dey Kings, and between Boat- 
swain and Jenkins. Messrs, McGill, Williams, and Whitehurst, 
returned from the mission into the interior, having proceeded 
as far as Bo Poro, about one hundred miles from the colony, 
and published the result of their labours in a journal by White- 
hurst, which contains much curious and valuable information, 
and is a well written production. 

Li the latter part of April, information reached the colony, 
that a town belonging to a clan of the Dey people, under the 
command of King Softly, had been sacked, burnt, and the 
inhabitants carried off prisoners. A messenger was imme- 
diately sent, requesting an interview with the aggressive party. 
In the course of a few days the messenger returned, accompa- 
nied by Ynamby, thecommander-in-chief of Boatswain, with an 
armed escort of forty men. Audience was immediately given, 
and a palaver talked, concerning the cause of the war. This 
Ynamby was a notorious character, recommended to Boatswain 
by some bold exploits, who accordingly secured his services as 
his head warrior. He was a noble looking man, about thirty- 
five years of age, considerably over:5ix feet high, muscular, and 
well proportioned, with a proud and commanding front. Be- 
fore opening the audience, he, with his warrior escort, went 
through a strange religious ceremony, accompanied by a wild 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 513 

dance. Finding that a cessation of hostilities was desired by 
the agent, he made two or three attempts to ascertain whether 
the authorities were wilhng to pay for a peace. This he artfully 
interwove with a brief narration of his life, which for deep 
cunning and adroitness, would not discredit an enlightened 
diplomatist. The palaver commenced on the part of the colony 
by the agent : " I want you to stop the war. I want African man 
to live in peace." Ynamhy : "My farrer die, he no give me 
nothing; my morer (mother) die, he give me nothing. I put 
cassado ground, he no come; I put rice ground, he no come; I 
go look camwood, I no find him; I go look ibery, (ivory,) I no 
get him. Dat time my farrer die, he gim me dis, (grasping his 
lance,) he say, here your money. Now, pose war done, what 
1 do for money? I can git slave for work my farm. I can git 
plenty oomon, (women). Pose no war, I must put kinjar (a 
kind of wicker basket,) my back, all same slave. Dis time, I 
git plenty slave. I git plenty oomon; ebery time I send all my 
friend oomon, I say here your wife. Pose King Boson want 
for make peace, and I no will, he can no do em. Pose you 
send man for King Boson, for tell him no fight, he can ask me — 
Ynamby, you heart lay down? Pose I say no: he can no do 
em; pose I say my heart lay down, he can say war done." 

Notwithstanding their troubles with the natives, and a tem- 
porary scarcity of provisions, occasioned by the native wars, 
the colonists continued to progress in the internal improvements 
of their towns and settlements. Monrovia contained five hun- 
dred well built houses, many of them of stone, and all with 
stone foundations and first story, besides docks, light-house and 
public offices. There were three stone churches, and as many 
large store warehouses, twenty trading vessels, and men in 
business, " who came not worth five dollars, now worth thou- 
sands." Nor were the colonists inattentive to their moral and 
religious advancement. We have seen, from the testimony of a 
thousand witnesses, that the inhabitants of Liberia are pecu- 
liarly a temperate and Sabbath-keeping people. Out of a popu- 
lation of thirty-five hundred at Monrovia, more than five hun- 
dred were professors of religion. Nearly all the settlements 
were this year visited with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, 
upon their religious assemblies, and many were hopefully con- 
verted. The fifth Baptist church was this year erected, making 
in all ten churches in the colony. 



514 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

The first murder that ever occurred in the colony, was com- 
mitted this year. A recaptured African, of the Congo tribe, 
named Joe Waldburgh, was murdered by an Ebo, named John 
Demony, at the instigation of Waldburgh's wife. The crime 
was marlved by the most aggravating circumstances. The par- 
ties were tried, Governor Skinner presiding, and condemned to 
be hung. The execution took place on the 22d of July. 

The Maryland colony at Cape Palmas continued to prosper. 
From the commencement of this settlement in 1833, the society 
had sent out seven expeditions, containing in all about three 
hundred emigrants. The village of Harper contained about 
twenty-five private houses, and several public buildings; a 
public farm of ten acres had been cleared, and thirty acres 
were under cultivation by the colonists. Their influence on the 
natives was salutary: schools were established in the settle- 
ment, and the people were pronounced by their late excellent 
governor, Dr. Hall, moral, industrious, religious, and happy. 
This gentleman had resigned his oflice, and J. B. Russwurm, 
former editor of the Liberia Herald, was appointed to that 
station. In addition to the number of missionaries already 
engaged in this settlement, the brig Niobe from Baltimore, in 
December, brought out Thomas Savage, M. D., missionary of 
the Protestant Episcopal Church, Rev. D. White and lady, of 
the American Board, Mr. James, a coloured printer, sent out 
by the same Board as assistant missionary, and Mr. David 
James, a coloured missionary of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. The Rev. Mr. Seyes, who had recently returned 
from a visit to the United States, and brought with him one 
white and one coloured Methodist preacher, writes under date 
of December 21: "I preached in Krootown this afternoon, to a 
congregation of Kroomen. I spoke without an interpreter, in 
broken English, compounded of the most common words of 
our language, and many that are peculiar to Africa, and which 
were familiar to me from my infancy. They listened to us 
with deep attention, and when we went to prayer, in conclu- 
sion, they came around us, and not content to kneel simply, 
they bowed down their faces to the earth. let me urge it 
upon the church to have pity upon this intelligent and teachable 
tribe. send us a missionary for Kroo Settra. They beg, they 
intreat us to send them a teacher — a man of God. We shall 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 515 

make an additional effort to plant the standard of the Redeemer 
among the Condoes." 

While Dr. Hall was Governor of the Maryland colony, he 
was a good deal annoyed by the pilfering propensities of King 
Freeman's people. In order to defend himself, he informed 
the king that he should hold him responsible for the thefts of 
his people. The king complied for some time, but the cases 
were so frequent and his authority over the tribe so easily 
eluded, that he gave up in despair, and applied to the Governor 
for the secret of the influence which made the colonists so orderly 
and obedient. On being informed that all his laws were manu- 
factured by the Society's Board in Baltimore, King Freeman 
resolved to send his head-man, Simleh Balla, to Baltimore, to 
get him a book of laws made. Simleh, accordingly, took ship 
for Baltimore. He was introduced to the Board, and of course 
kindly received by them. He then stated the object of his 
mission in the following speech, as nearly as it could be written 
at the time: 

"I be Balla, head-man for King Freeman of Cape Palmas. 
Him send me this country. I come for peak his word. Pose 
him sava book, I no come; he make book and send him; but 
cause he no sava make book, I come for look country and speak 
him words. 

''Long time past, slave man come we country. He do we 
bad too much, he make slave, he tief plenty man for sell. By 
and by all slave man knock off. This time we no sell slave, 
no man come for tief him. All man glad this palaver done 
sit. Beside that we have plenty trouble. All man have to go 
for ship for get him ting, iron, cloth, tobacco, guns, powder, and 
plenty, plenty, little ting. Some time canoe capsize, man lose 
all him money. Some time he die, plenty water kill him, him 
can't come up. This hurt we too much, and make we heart 
sorry. By and by one white man come we country. He bring 
plenty black American man. Him buy we country — we give 
him land for sit down. Him say he come for do country good. 
Him build house — put all him money shore — make farm — 
make road — make all country fine. This time all good ting 
live shore — no more go ship. Ebery man can buy that ting 
him want. No money lose — no man lose. This make all men 
heart glad — make king's heart glad. King tell me, ' Balla, go 
that country, see how this ting be. Tell them people all we 



516 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

heart say. Thank him for that good thing them do for we 
country. Beg him for send more man, for make house, make 

farm for bring money, and for make all little childs sava read 

book, all same America men.' I done." 

The Board furnished a simple penal code, in language that 
the natives could understand. On reading it to Sirnleh, a clause 
limiting every man to a single wife alarmed him, and he ex- 
pressed his disapprobation in the following language: — "No 
good for my countryman. (Why not, Simleh?) Me tell you. 
I got four wives. Spose 1 send three away, and keep Bana — 
she pretty — she young. No man give 'em rice — no man take 
care of 'em — they die — pickaninny die too— no good law that." 
There was so much reason in his objection that an immediate 
reply was not made to him, and after a short pause, he went 
on: "Me tell you. Spose that law no good law for me— well- 
that law good for my son— he pickaninny now— got no wife — 
by um by he want wife— I say, ' King Freeman say you only 
have one wife— so all men.' When I got my four wives I no 
sava that law. Wlien my son get wife, he sava law— he do 
what law say. Yes, that good law for time come." 

After the return of Simleh to Africa, the laws being adopted, 
and found to be popular and productive of the happiest results, 
the king applied to the Rev. Mr. Wilson to write him a letter 
of thanks to the Board, as follows: 

" King Freeman to the Gentlemen of the Colonization Board 
of BaltiTiiore- Naheveo. (Greeting.) 

" Mr. Wilson be hand for me and Simleh Balla be mout for 
me for make dis book, but de word come from me own heart. 
He be true I send Balla for look you— he eye be all same me 
eye, and dat word he peak be all same he come out me own 
mout. You do Balla good when he lib at your hand, dat be 
all same you do good for King Freeman. I tank you for dat — 
Balla tell me you hab fine country— I believe what he say, 
cause he no fit for tell lie. I tank you bery much, gentlemen, 
for dem dash you send me. I like em plenty and go keep em 
all de time. But I tank you berry much for them law you send 
me— he be good law and all my people go do him. Pos' I have 
dem law first time, I no go do fool fash all time— dis time I go 
make all me people do dat ting what you law tell me. I tank 
you plenty, gentlemen, for dem good law. I tell all man go 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 517 

hear Misser Wilson talk God palaver, and yiserday so miicli 
man go till plenty hab for stand outside de house. 

" Soon Balla go for Merica first time, me go long way bush, 
and tell all man say he must make fine road and bring plenty 
trade for Cape Pal mas. Me heart tink say, he gwiu do him 
soon. 

"Me hear you say you hab plenty slave in your country. 
Me hab one word for peak dem. You must come me country, 
den you be freemen for true. Dis country be big and plenty 
room lib here. Pos' you come, I speak true, me heart be glad 
plenty for look you. Pos' any gentleman want come, me want 
him for come too — me heart glad for see dem too much. 

" Me wod be done now. I tank you berry ranch for your 
dash and your law. I go lub you till me dead. Me send you 
one country chair for you look at. Me 2p put pickaninny 
country und for you see. 

"A good child loves his father, he loves his mother. 

'' King Freeman, alias Pa Nimmah." 

It must have been truly gratifying to every benevolent heart 
to watch the progress of the cause at home, during this year. 
In almost every section of the country it was increasing in 
favour with the people. Auxiliaries were formed — large be- 
quests and other contributions were made — the society was 
multiplying its labours — and the situation of the slave became 
everywhere the object of the most benevolent interest. The 
secretary of the society made a tour through the south and 
south-west, and was everywhere received with favour, and 
often with enthusiasm. Memorials, from several different 
quarters, were sent in to Congress praying for governmental 
aid to the cause. The project of a colonial collegiate institu- 
tion was ardently taken up by the Young Men's Colonization 
Society of New York, and a large amount of money was raised 
for that object. Several associations were formed for the pur- 
pose of considering the condition of the slaves in this country, 
and with a special view to educating them and preparing them 
for freedom and colonization. 

We shall close the history of colonization, during the year 
1836, by an extract relating to Liberia, from the Sketches of 
Foreign Travel, by the Rev. Charles Rockwell, of the United 
States Navy. 

" It was on the Sabbath, late in the month of November, 
44 



518 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

1836, that we came to anchor in the harbour of Monrovia. 
As the day is there observed as strictly as in a Scottish or New 
England village, we saw nothing of the colonists until Monday, 
though they must have been anxious to know who we were, 
and what news we had brought them. During our visits to 
tlie dilTerent settlements along the coast, our intercourse with 
the colonists was everywhere free and familiar, and apparently 
gratifying to both parties. 

" Mr. Williams, who has for years been the acting governor of 
Monrovia, took the lead in entertaining us, and in doing the 
honors of the place. He was from Petersburg, Virginia, where, 
if I mistake not, he was once a slave. He has a peculiarly 
modest, sedate, gentlemanly deportment, and during his re- 
peated visits to the United States, has, by his intelligence and 
good sense, justly secured the esteem and confidence of those 
with whom he has had intercourse. He came to Africa, as a 
clergyman of the Methodist church, and for a year or more 
•was engaged in the self denying labours of a missionary among 
the natives, at a distance of one hundred and fifty miles in the 
interior. Under the title of vice-agent, he has for years been 
at the head (actively) of the colony, and as far as I could learn, 
has so discharged the duties of his office as to secure the confi- 
dence alike of his fellow citizens, and of the society from which 
he received his appointment. 

" The secretary of the colony, who is also the editor of the 
Liberia Herald, was a native of Virginia, but was educated in 
part in Boston. He is a man of dignified and gentlemanly de- 
portment, and an able, correct, and vigorous writer. He came 
to Africa at so early an age that his manners are those of one 
who has known no superior, and who has never been trained 
to cringe and bow to those who, from having a skin whiter 
than his own, might have claimed the right of lording it over 
him. Such specimens of the coloured race, I have seen no 
where but in Africa; and surely to those who take pleasure in 
beholding in man the image of his Maker, it were worth a 
voyage to that continent to witness so pleasing a spectacle. 
The different physicians in the colony, at the time of our visit, 
were also men of colour; and we met with individuals in other 
walks of life, whose intelligence, energy, and independence of 
character, would have done no discredit to any community. 

" We were every where hospitably received, taking our seats 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 519 

with the colonists at their tables, uniting with them in a public 
dinner which they gave us on shore, and entertaining them and 
their ladies on board our ship. The houses of the wealthier 
class are two stories high, of a good size, and with drawing 
rooms furnished with sofas, sideboards, and other articles of 
luxury and ease. Most of the colonists, however, live in 
houses of a story and a half high, framed and covered as in 
New England, and having, besides the chambers, small but 
convenient rooms on the lower floor, while the cooking is com- 
monly done, as in our Southern States, in cabins distinct from 
the house, to avoid the annoyance of smoke and heat. In 
attending church at Monrovia, we met with an attentive and 
devout audience; and among the females it struck me that 
there was a larger proportion of silk dresses than is often to be 
met with in congregations with us. There is commonly preach- 
ing in all the churches three times upon the Sabbath, and once 
or more during the other days of the week. 

"At a wedding party which I attended, there was a degree of 
form and etiquette, such as to remind me of the remark made by 
a foreign traveller, that the coloured people were the most polite 
class he met with in the United States. On the tables, to which 
we were invited, was beef, obtained from a small breed of native 
cattle which are very fat, together with mutton, ham, eggs, 
fowls, fine oysters and fresh fish, sweet potatoes, rice, oranges, 
bananas, and other tropical fruits, with excellent bread, pastry, 
and sweet-meats. The cooking was very good, having been 
done by those who had been trained in the first families in our 
Southern States. Among our young officers there were seve- 
ral who found in the colonies, old family servants of their own, 
or of their relatives and neighbours; and the feelings of interest 
•and attachment that were exhibited in such cases, and the 
liberal presents made on both sides, showed that the meeting 
was far from being an unpleasant one." The author next goes 
into a minute and most valuable account of the climate, soil, 
and productior^s, of the country, where we regret that our 
limits do not permit us to follow him. He agrees with the 
Rev. Mr, Wilson, himself a southern gentleman, that the rice 
plantations in the colony " were unsurpassed, or rather une- 
qualled, by any he had ever seen before." 

Well may we reply with Dr. J. Breckinridge in a speech at an 
anniversary of the society in New York, in ansv/er to the ques- 



520 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tion, What has been done? "We point to the history of tliat 
blessed institution planted by American hands. We point to 
temples reared to the living God on that dark coast, now be- 
spangled with colonies clustering like a constellation of promise, 
and rising on the deep dark sea of Africa's woes. W^e point 
to revivals of religion, to the Spirit poured from Heaven, and 
giving the testimony of the God of the Bible to this good cause, 
AVe point to an enterprise begun and carried on upon principles 
such as God's word has announced, and his providence has 
openly sustained." 



CHAPTER XXX. 



VICE-AGENCY OF MR. A. D. WILLIAMS, 1837. 

In the recent death of the illustrious James Madison, the Ame- 
rican Colonization Society had, with the American people, 
special cause for mourning. This great statesman, and " father 
of the constitution," had for years filled the oflice of president 
of the society, had been one of its earliest advisers, and one of 
its most ardent friends. One of the last, if not the very last, 
labour of this great man's pen, was a letter in recommendation 
of the principles of the society. 

The vacancy occasioned by the death of Madison, was filled 
by the unanimous election of the Hon. Henry Clay. In sig- 
nifying his acceptance of the office, this distinguished friend of 
the society, observes: "Regarding the American Colonization 
Society as the only practicable scheme ever presented to public 
consideration, for separating advantageously to all parties, the 
European descendants upon this continent from the free people 
of colour, the descendants of Africans, with their own consent; 
and of ultimately effecting a more extensive separation of the 
two races, with the consent of the States and individuals in- 
terested, 1 shall continue to cherish the highest interest in the 
success of the society, and will contribute whatever is in my 
power to promote its prosperity." 

The operations of the parent society were somewhat crip- 
pled at this time, by the State societies, some of them, pre- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 521 

ferring to make independent application of their funds; and 
the planting of the new settlement of " Mississippi in Liberia," 
increased the number of separate colonial establishments in Li- 
beria, to four. Some of these State associations preferring, as 
we have said,, to act independently of the parent society, it 
became necessary that some plan of union should be agreed 
upon among them all. Such a plan was accordingly drawn 
up by a committee of the American Colonization Society, con- 
sisting of twelve gentlemen, mostly statesmen well known to the 
nation, of whom the Hon. C. F. Mercer was the chairman, and 
at a subsequent meeting was accepted by the Board. This 
plan of federal union, and the constitution accompanying it, 
was then submitted to the particular societies, all of whom 
agreed thereto, except that of Maryland. A convention of 
delegates was then proposed to meet at Philadelphia, in Sep- 
tember of the following year. The proposition was favourably 
received, and a convention was held at the time and place pro- 
posed. Maryland still declining to become a party, the con- 
vention broke up, and at the succeeding annual meeting of the 
American Colonization Society, held at Washington, in which 
all the societies interested were fully represented, the plan of 
Federal Union was fully discussed, and, with little alteration, 
adopted. The society, from that time, has been in operation 
under the amended constitution for the united colonies, by the 
name and style of the Commonwealth of Liberia. It has been 
found, as predicted, that these changes in the organization of 
of the society, have proved highly advantageous. The wis- 
dom and power of the State societies, are thereby embodied in 
the American Colonization Society. The directors being now 
composed of delegates from the State societies, naturally feel a 
more direct responsibility than when appointed as formerly, 
and being distributed in the several States, are able to represent 
the views and wishes of the friends of colonization generally, 
and are an accessible medium of communication between the 
society and its patrons. 

The charter through which the society receives its present 
corporate powers, was granted by the Legislature of Maryland, 
and passed that body on the 22d of March, 1837. The charter 
of 1831, held from the same State, was found to be defective in 
some important respects, and the rights and interests of the 
society had been materially injured in consequence. Having 
44* 



533 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

applied in the first instance to the Congress at Washington, for 
a new charter, and being refused on the ground that Congress 
had not power under the constitution to confer it, the society 
turned again to the Legislature of Maryland, praying for the 
addition of new powers to their former act of incorporation. 
Their memorial was accepted and considered by that legisla- 
ture, and on the 13th of May, 1S37, a special meeting of the 
society being held at Beltsville, Prince George's county, for liie 
purpose of considering the new charter, it was accepted. 

In the reports which the secretary of the society made from 
time to time during his tour through the South and West, we 
find the following interesting passage, which, although not im- 
mediately bearing upon the history of colonization, yet has a 
collateral connexion therewith, and is possessed of so intrinsic 
an interest, that we cannot forbear extracting it. " In the re- 
spected family of General Owen, of Wilmington, North Caro- 
lina, I became acquainted with a native African, whose history 
and character are exceedingly interesting, and some sketches of 
whose life have been already published. I allude to Moro, or 
Omora, a Foulah by birth, educated a JNIahomedan, and who, 
long after he came in slavery to this country, retained a devoted 
attachment to the faith of his fathers, and deemed a copy of the 
Koran in Arabic (which language he reads and writes with 
facility,) his richest treasure. About twenty years ago, while 
scarcely able to express his thoughts intelligibly on any subject 
in the English language, he fled from a severe master in South 
Carolina, and on his arrival at Fayetteville, was seized as a 
runaway slave, and thrown into jail. His peculiar appearance, 
inability to converse, and particularly the facility with which 
he was observed to write a strange language, attracted much 
attention, and induced his present humane and Christian master 
to take him from prison, and finally, at his earnest request, to 
become his purchaser. His gratitude was boundless, and his 
joy to be imagined only by him, who has himself been relieved 
from the iron that enters the soul. Since his residence with 
General Owen, he has worn no bonds but those of gratitude 
and affection, 

' OI 'tis a Godlike privilege to save, 
And he who scorns it, is himself a slave.* 

Being of a feeble constitution, Moro's duties have been of the 
lightest kind, and he has been treated rather as a friend than a 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 523 

servant. The garden has been to him a place of recreation 
rather than a toil, and the concern is not that he should labour 
more, but less. The anxious efforts made to instruct him in the 
doctrines and precepts of our divine religion have not been in 
vain. He has thrown aside the blood-stained Koran, and now 
worships at the feet of the Prince of Peace. The Bible, of 
which he has an Arabic copy, is his guide, his comforter, or as 
he expresses it, <■ his life.' Far advanced in years and very 
infirm, he is animated in conversation, and when he speaks 
of God or the affecting truths of the Scriptures, his swarthy 
features beam with devotion, and his eye is lit up with the 
hope of immortality. Some of the happiest hours of his life 
were spent in the society of the Rev. Jonas King, during his 
last visit from Greece to the United States. With that gentle- 
man he conversed and read the Scriptures in the Arabic lan- 
guage, and felt the triumph of the same all conquering faith as 
he chanted with him the praises of the Christian's God. 

" Moro is much interested in the plans and progress of the 
American Colonization Society. He thinks his age and infirmi- 
ties forbid his return to his own country. His prayer is that 
the Foulahs and all other JNIahomedans may receive the gospel. 
When, more than a year ago, a man by the name of Paul, of the 
Foulah nation, and able like himself to understand Arabic, was 
preparing to embark at New York for Liberia, INIoro corres- 
ponded with him and presented him with one of his two copies 
of the Bible in that language. Extracts from Moro's letters are 
before me. In one of them he says, 'I hear you wish to go 
back to Africa; if you do go, hold fast to Jesus Christ's law, 
and tell all the brethren that they may turn to Jesus before it is 
too late. The missionaries who go that way to preach to sin- 
ners, pay attention to them, I beg you for Christ's sake. They 
call all people, rich and poor, white and black, to come and drink 
of the waters of life freely, without money and without price. 
I have been in Africa; it is a dark part. I was a follower of 
Mahomet, went to church, prayed five times a day, and did 
all Mahomet said I must ; but the Lord is so good. He opened 
my way and brought me to this part of the world where I found 
the light. Jesus Christ is the light, all that believe in him shall 
be saved, all that believe not shall be lost. The Lord put reli-. 
gion in my heart about ten years ago. I joined the Presbyterian 
church, and since that time 1 have minded Jesus' laws. I have 



524 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

turned away from Mahomet to follow Christ. I do not ask for 
long life, for riches, or for great things in this world, all I ask is a 
seat at Jesus' feet in heaven. The Bible, which is the word of 
God, says, sinners must be born again or they never can see 
God in peace. They must be changed by the Spirit of God. 
I loved and served the world a long time, but this did not make 
me happy. God opened my eyes to see the danger I was in. 
I was like one who stood by the road side and cried, Jesus, thou 
Son of God, have mercy ; he heard me and did have mercy. 
' God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, 
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have 
everlasting life.' I am an old sinner, but Jesus is an old Sa- 
viour. I am a great sinner, but Jesus is a great Saviour: thank 
God for it. If you wish to be happy, lay aside Mahomet's 
prayer, and use the one which our blessed Saviour taught his 
disciples, ' Our Father,' &.c." 

In another letter to the same, he writes, "I have every reason 
to believe that you are a good man, and as such, I love you as 
I love myself. I have two Arabic Bibles, procured for me by 
my good Christian friends, and one of them I will send you the 
first opportunity; we ought now to wake up for we have been 
asleep. God has been good to us in bringing us to this coun- 
try, and placing us in the hands of Christians. Let us now 
wake up and go to Christ, and he will give us light. God bless 
the American land! God bless the white people! They send 
out men every where to hold up a crucified Saviour to the 
dying world. In this they are doing the Lord's will. My lot 
is at last a delightful one. From one man to another I went 
until I fell into the hands of a pious man. He read the Bible 
for me until my eyes were opened, now I can see; thank God 
for it. I am dealt with as a child, not as a servant." 

By the establishment of the mission of the Protestant Epis- 
copal Church near Cape Palmas, the whole number of mission- 
aries in the colonies was increased to between twenty-five and 
thirty. The labours of these self-denying men were arduous, 
but they were not in vain. Two dialects of the neighbouring 
tribes had been reduced to a written form, and primers, cate- 
chisms, and portions of the Bible, published in both. The 
report of the Liberia mission of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, represents this as a year of unparalleled prosperity. 
^•The fervent and united prayers," says that report, "with 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 525 

which we commenced 1S37, have not been in vain. The 
thousands of pious hearts among the Christians of America, 
which have been suppHcating a throne of divine grace for 
Africa, have not been pleading for nought." Rev. Mr. Seyes, 
after his return writes, "It remains for me to add, that up to the 
present moment we are still the continued objects of divine care, 
and blessed with innumerable instances of God's loving kind- 
ness. Truly, my brother, Mhe Hues have fallen to us in plea- 
sant places, and we have a goodly heritage.' When I look 
around me, and see what a few months — a little more than one 
short year — have accomplished, I am astonished at the goodness 
and mercy of God. The work of the Lord goes on. Could 
you, could any of my beloved brethren in America, have wit- 
nessed the scene which my eyes beheld this afternoon, surely a 
fresh interest would have been excited for poor Africa. I 
preached to a congregation of Kroomen. They hung upon 
my lips, and listened with deep attention. I opened to them a 
brief history of the creation, noticing each day's work com- 
prising the first week of time. I told them of man — how his 
Maker made him, how he blest him, but how basely he fell. 
At last I talked of Jesus, the blessed Jesus, and, my brother, 
when we went to prayer in conclusion, and our beloved brother 
Chase, in a most pathetic and appropriate manner, addressed a 
throne of grace, they formed a semi-circle around us, and not 
content to kneel simply, they bowed down their faces to the 
earth. It was a most interesting and solemn time." "We have 
enjoyed recently two days of much pleasure. The brig Niobe 
arrived on the 15th, with emigrants from Baltimore, designed 
for Palmas. In her came as passengers, the Rev. Dr. Savage, 
Episcopalian clergyman and physician. Rev. David White, 
Presbyterian missionary, and his lady, and a Mr. Henshaw. 
These beloved brethren spent two days with us. It was a treat 
to us to enjoy their excellent society, and their fervent prayers. 
INIay God spare their useful lives." 

The Rev. Mr. Wilson made an extensive tour through the 
interior, and was every where beset by the people for teachers 
and missionaries. The lights of humanity and religion were 
now gradually pervading the surrounding tribes, and had 
already effected a total cessation of human sacrifices, so com- 
mon before the colonies were planted. Bob Grey, one of the 
principal chiefs at Bassa Cove, informed the missionaries that 



526 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

he had frequently sacrificed victims under a tree still standing 
near Edina, and celebrated as the "Devil's Bash." A Chris- 
tian church is now sheltered beneath the branches of that tree. 
These branches were, at one time, after a victory on the part 
of the neighbouring tribe, " loaded with the dripping horrors 
of a thousand decapitated and mangled heads." "We are 
gratified by the fact," says Mr. Wilson, " that the people under 
our charge and instruction, are now in great numbers suspend- 
ing their ordinary labours and amusements on the Sabbath, 
and are avowedly determined for the future to be constant 
attendants upon religious instruction. Last Sabbath I preached 
to them in the open air; and, although this is with them the 
most busy season of the year, I had an audience, as it was 
supposed, of six hundred persons. At the close of the remarks, 
a venerable old man, of three score and ten years, rose up and 
smote upon his breast, saying, 'he has spoken the truth, and we 
never heard it before.' Next Sabbath I am to preach to them 
on a subject of their own selection : the evidence of the authen- 
ticity of the Bible, and the circumstances and manner of its 
communication to mankind. One week later," Mr. Wilson 
adds, " we conscientiously believe, that the inquiry has sprung 
up in the hearts of many of them, ' What shall we do to be 
saved?' Last Sabbath I exhibited to them some of the proofs 
that the Bible was God's book. The audience was about six 
hundred, and I do not know that I ever saw a more orderly, 
more attentive assembly. Next Sabbath I am, by request of a 
leading man, to tell them, as he says, 'all about Jesus Christ.' 
It was hoped that more than twenty of the natives have been 
truly converted." 

In the colony, seasons of revival had been extensively expe- 
rienced, especially at Caldwell. " I am told," says a female 
teacher lately arrived at Monrovia, " that at Caldwell there has 
been an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, in the conversion of 
about forty souls, and the whole society here seems to be in a 
very prosperous state of religion." The desire for knowledge 
at Caldwell and New Georgia, was intense. "Brother Brown, 
of the former place," says the same writer, "has been here 
since our arrival, and gave a heart-cheering account of his 
school, in which he has about eighty scholars advancing 
rapidly. INIany, he says, who began with the alphabet when 
he commenced teaching, are now decent readers in the New 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION". 527 

Testament, are quite good writers, and are studying grammar, 
arithmetic, &c. He said he could have many more native 
children than are now in his school, if he could support them. 
The parents of as many as twenty native children had offered 
to bind them to him, or give them to him on any terms, if he 
would only take them under his instruction. The people of a 
native town, near Caldwell, are extremely anxious for teachers. 
A native town, called Jack's Town, near Monrovia, at which 
brother Seyes had visited, and taught the people, is advancing 
towards Christianity and civilization, insomuch that they have 
renounced their 'greegrees,' and refuse to buy and sell on the 
Sabbath." Of the number of converted natives, some of them 
were living in the families of the colonists, and had been trained 
to the knowledge of the Christian's God, while others were 
" right out of the bush." 

On Sunday the 19th of March, the large house erected for 
the use of the Methodist Episcopal Church, at Monrovia, was 
opened and solemnly dedicated to the service of Almighty God. 
This was a durable and spacious edifice, built of stone, sixty- 
six feet long and fifty broad, made capable of containing nearly 
all the inhabitants of that settlement. At Millsburgh, the 
Methodist church had increased, this year, from eleven to 
sixty-three members. The White Plains Manual Labour 
School, near this settlement, has shared in the blessings of 
converting grace. One of the native boys at this school, re- 
ceived a visit from his father, and on being inquired for at a 
certain hour of the day to go to work with the other boys, 
was missing. The missionary found him in one of the upper 
rooms of the school house, anxiously pleading with his father, 
whom he had carried there, to " look for the American's God, 
and get his soul converted to Christ." 

In the month of September, a public meeting was held by 
the chizens of Monrovia, for the purpose of declaring, and 
making known to the world, their free sentiments and opinions 
concerning the cause of African Colonization. This interesting 
meeting was addressed by several citizens of the colony, under 
a deep sense of obligation to the Colonization Society, and with 
an enthusiasm and eloquence worthy of the cause they had 
assembled to promote. Said one, " I arrived in Africa on the 
24th of May, 1823; at that time the colony was involved in a 
savage war; immediately I had to shoulder my musket and 



528 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION- 

do military duty. The circumstances of the colony were try- 
ing in the extreme; but never have I seen the moment, when 
I regretted coming to the colony. My object in coming was 
liberty, and under the firm conviction that Africa is the only 
place, in existing circumstances, where the man of colour can 
enjoy the inestimable blessings of liberty and equality, I feel 
grateful beyond expression to the American Colonization So- 
ciety, for preparing this peaceful asylum." Said another — 
" I thank God that ever he put it into the hearts of the Colo- 
nization Society to seek out this free soil, on which I have been 
so honoured to set my feet. I and my family were born in 
Charleston, South Carolina, under the appellation of free peo- 
ple; but freedom I never knew, until, by the benevolence of 
this society, we were conveyed to the shores of Africa. My 
language is too poor to express the gratitude I entertain 
towards the American Colonization Society." Said a third — 
"J came to Liberia in 1832: my place of residence was the 
city of Washington, District of Columbia, where I passed for a 
freeman. But I can now say I was never free until I landed 
on the shores of Africa. I further state, that Africa, so far as 
I am acquainted with the world, is the only place where the 
people of colour can enjoy true and rational liberty." Said a 
fourth — "I beg leave to state, that my situation is greatly 
altered for the better, by coming to Africa. My political 
knowledge is far superior to what it would have been, liad I 
remained in America a thousand years. I therefore seize this 
chance, to present my thanks to the American Colonization 
Society for enabling me to come to this colony, which they 
have so benevolently established." The following resolutions, 
among others were then passed, as expressive of the sense of 
the meeting: 

" That this meeting entertain the warmest gratitude for what 
the American Colonization Society has done for the people of 
colour, and for us particularly; and that we regard the scheme 
as entitled to the highest confidence of every man of colour: 
That this meeting regard the colonization institution as one 
of the highest, holiest, and most benevolent enterprises of the 
present day. That as a plan for the melioration of the condi- 
tion of the coloured race, it takes the precedence of all that 
have been presented to the attention of the modern world: 
That in its operations it is peaceful and safe— in its tendencies 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 529 

beneficial and advantageous: That it is entitled to the highest 
veneration, and unbounded confidence of every man of colour: 
That what it has already accomplished demands our devout 
thanks and gratitude to those noble and disinterested philan- 
thropists who compose it, as being under God, the greatest 
earthly benefactors of a despised and oppressed portion of the 
human family." 

"Whereas it has been widely and maliciously circulated 
in the United States of America, that the inhabitants of this 
colony are unhappy in their condition, and anxious to return, — 
Resolved, That the report is false and malicious, and originated 
only in design to injure the colony by calling ofi' the support 
and sympathy of its friends; that so far from having a desire to 
return, we should regard such an event as the greatest calamity 
that could befall us." 

At the same time a resolution was adopted expressing grati- 
tude to the benevolent ladies of the United States, particularly 
of New York, Philadelphia, and Richmond, for their efforts to 
promote education in the colony, and testifying to the pro- 
mising condition of the schools sustained by their contributions. 
The Manual Labour School, incidentally mentioned above, 
was established by the Missionary Society of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. It was located at Millsburg on a spot of 
singular beauty, salubrity and fertility, under the care of the 
Rev. B. R. Wilson, and denominated the White Plains Manual 
Labour School, in honour of the liberahty of individuals in 
White Plains, New York, who had largely assisted to found it. 
By the plan of the school, from thirty to fifty orphan or desti- 
tute children, either from among the colonists or natives, were 
to receive support and education. These children are to be 
bound until they are twenty-one, to the superintendent of the 
Liberia Mission, who is pledged as representative of the Mis- 
sionary Society, to grant them ample means of living and of 
instruction in letters and the most useful arts. 

The Rondoubt, sailed from Wilmington, North Carolina, on 
the 30th of December, and arrived at the colony on the 4th of 
February, with thirty-four emigrants, among whom were Wil- 
liam Taylor, a young coloured physician, educated for the 
medical profession under the direction of the Board, and eigh- 
teen slaves, liberated by Dr. Shuman, of Stokes county. North 
Carolina, for whose comfortable settlement in the colony, he 
45 



530 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

made liberal provision. Dr. David Francis Bacon, recently- 
appointed principal colonial physician, also took passage in this 
vessel. 

It was found after the Rondoubt had been chartered, that 
her accommodations were not sufficient to carry out the full 
number that had been appointed to her. Lewis Sheridan, a 
free man of colour of great respectability, and an interesting 
company of his relatives and friends, who had made arrange- 
ment to embark in her, were obliged to postpone their depar- 
ture to a more favourable opportunity. Repeated and earnest 
efforts were subsequently made to secure a passage for these 
persons, in other vessels to the colony, but without success; 
and the managers, unprepared in the reduced state of their 
resources to charter a vessel exclusively for them, finally 
assented to a proposition from the Pennsylvania Society to 
convey them to the settlement at Bassa Cove. 

Dr. Bacon entered immediately upon his professional duties. 
The following is extracted from his communication to the 
Board, dated February 15th: — " I found the colony in a peace- 
ful, prosperous, and healthy condition. The public prosperity, 
and general comfort have been greatly promoted under the 
faithful and active government of Mr. Williams, whose business- 
like management has effected a reform in affairs that has given 
me a satisfaction which I know the Board and all the friends 
of the colony will share, on perceiving the results as reported by 
him officially. In my own department I have found much that 
required active attention; for although there is not a single 
case of the common fever in the colony, (unless at Edina, from 
which I have not yet heard) there are in all this section, be- 
sides a few light cases of croup, about fifteen or twenty cases 
of chronic disorders resulting from debility, mostly in old broken 
down constitutions, which have been long suffering for want 
of the aid of a regular physician; the colony having been left 
entirely to the medical assistants ever since the departure of 
Dr. Skinner in September. 

" The people in general I believe to be remarkably quiet, in- 
offensive and peaceable, more so than in any part of the United 
States where I have lived. Ever since I have established my- 
self on shore, all have continued to treat me with the greatest 
attention and kindness ; and since beginning my business here 
as physician, I have met with nothing but the most polite and 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 531 

civil usage. My medical assistants in this quarter, Messrs. 
Prout, Brown, and Chase, have been very polite and attentive, 
and have promptly pledged themselves to become active and 
serviceable to the colony under my directions. Dr. McDovvall 
left your service long since, and resides wholly at Bassa Cove." 

The office of Governor of Liberia was unanimously offered 
to Captain E. A. Hitchcock, a gentleman from whose character 
and energy, great advantages were anticipated. Captain Hitch- 
cock, however, felt constrained to decline the appointment. In 
the absence of the chief officer from the colony, its affairs had 
for a long time been very efficiently administered by Mr. An- 
thony D. Williams, Lieutenant-Governor, and in a manner 
highly honourable to himself, and conducive to the good order 
and general prosperity of the colony. 

The policy of the society, to which it was driven under the 
pecuniary difficulties of previous years, namely, of sending 
out but few expeditions yearly, and those under special cir- 
cumstances only, it was found advisable still to adhere to. 
Whenever, however, emigrants were offered, and their ex- 
penses defrayed from other sources, the managers rendered 
their aid. Two very interesting instances of this description 
occurred during this year. Mrs. Rebecca Smith, widow of the 
late John Smith, of Sussex county, in Virginia, having died, 
his administrator transmitted to the society a copy of his will. 
By this document it appeared that he had bequeathed to his 
wife all his slaves during her life ; and directed that after her 
death they and their increase should be emancipated and sent 
to Liberia, giving to each of them a supply of clothing and 
one year's provision, exclusive of provision for their mainte- 
nance during the voyage. The testator farther directed that 
the expenses of removing and settling them should be de- 
frayed out of his estate. These emigrants were fifty-nine in 
number. 

In July, 1833, the Rev. John Stockdell, of Madison county, 
Virginia, died, having by will emancipated his slaves, thirty- 
one in number, for colonization in Liberia, and provided means 
for their transfer and settlement. The title of these slaves 
to their freedom being, however, denied by some of Mr. Stock- 
dell's heirs, they found it necessary to assert it in a court of 
justice; and after considerable litigation, the contest was ulti- 
mately decided in favour of the slaves. 



532 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

These emigrants, through the kind correspondence of Mr. 
Thomas Potts, administrator of Mr, Smith, and Colonel James 
W. Walker, executor of the Rev. Mr. Stockdell, together with 
a few others, amounting in all to one hundred, embarked on 
board the Emperor, which sailed from Norfolk on the 3d of 
December. The gentleman who attended to their embarka- 
tion says: "These emigrants are very orderly and well behaved, 
and I have no doubt will prove to be amongst the most indus- 
trious farmers that have ever been sent to Africa. They went 
off in perfect health and good spirits." The same vessel bore 
as a passenger, that generous and devoted friend of Africa, Dr. 
Ezekiel Skinner, returning to the scene of his former labours, 
trials, and sufferings, ready in spirit, if need be, to undergo them 
all again for the sake of the noble cause to which he had con- 
secrated his life. Miss Mary Skinner, his daughter, accom- 
panied her father, to assist him in his benevolent labours, and 
especially to take and preserve drawings of the plants and 
other interesting objects of the natural history of Africa. In 
the same vessel also, sailed the Rev. Mr. Barton, a missionary 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

In the month of January, the Mississippi State Colonization 
Society resolved to proceed in their enterprise of founding on 
the coast of Africa, under the general control of the parent 
society, a colony to be styled "Mississippi in Africa," and em- 
powered the Rev. R. S. Finley to obtain donations and fit out 
an expedition to lay the foundations of this new colony. A 
tract of land had been purchased, under the authority of the 
society, by the late Governor of Liberia, Dr. Skinner, on the 
western bank and near the mouth of the Sinou river; and in 
the month of April, the schooner Oriental, Captain Richards, 
sailed with a company of emigrants from New Orleans, under 
the care of the Rev. I. F. C. Finley, as Governor, and Dr. I. 
L. Blodgett, Physician and Surgeon, to take possession of that 
territory. They arrived in due time at their destination, and 
commenced the new colony. Forty-eight of the emigrants in 
the Mississippi expedition were slaves who had been emanci- 
pated, upon condition of colonizing, by the will of the late 
Major Nicholas Edmiston, of Tennessee. They were very 
generously provisioned for the voyage, and carried with them 
besides, some thousands of dollars. In the same company 
were two children who had never been the property of Major 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 533 

Edmiston. Their mother had been a servant of Colonel R. H. 
McEwen, of Nashville, and wished to be sold to Major Edmis- 
ton for the sake of being in the same family with her husband. 
Major Edmiston readily agreed to purchase her, but declined 
taking her two boys. The lads, consequently, remained in the 
family of Colonel McEwen, till their mother, with the other 
servants of Major Edmiston, started to New Orleans on their 
way to Africa. At the mother's request her sons were imme- 
diately emancipated by their master, furnished with clothing 
sufficient for two years, and abundantly provisioned for the 
voyage. Nor did the kindness of Colonel McEwen to these 
lads cease here, for after their embarkation for Africa, his care 
followed them across the ocean, with a solicitude for their wel- 
fare, which we in the North, whose relations to the black man 
are of such a kind that we can never come "in locum paren- 
tis" towards them, can hardly understand. The State Coloni- 
zation Society of Louisiana, resolved about the same time, to 
plant a similar colony in Africa; and each of the societies de- 
termined to raise twenty thousand dollars a year for five years, 
in order to carry out efficiently their benevolent designs. As 
in the state of Virginia, so also in those of Mississippi and 
Louisiana, the subject of colonization was now, and had been 
for some time previous, attracting especial attention, and was 
receiving munificent donations both in emancipated slaves and 
in money. 

The report of the managers of the Maryland Society for the 
year 1837, gives an encouraging view of their colony at Cape 
Palmas. The population was about three hundred; and mis- 
sionaries from four different denominations were established 
there. They had sent out in all, nine expeditions. Large ac- 
quisitions of territory had been made, and the State Society now- 
owned both sides of the river Cavally, from its mouth to the 
town of Dinah, about thirty miles from the ocean. Full provi- 
sions were in operation for the education of the colonists; agri- 
culture pursued as of vital importance; and a code of laws 
published by the society, well adapted to promote the ends of 
private right and public order and justice. In the summer, the 
brig Baltimore landed fifty-five emigrants at Cape Palmas. A 
majority of these were emancipated by the will of Richard Tub- 
man, Esq., of Georgia, on condition of emigration, and ten thou- 
sand dollars bequeathed to the society for the expenses of their 
45* 



534 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

emigration and settlement. They were of good character, and 
were experienced cotton planters. Many of them were ac- 
quainted with some trade. In November the same society fitted 
out another expedition by the Niobe, which sailed from Balti- 
more with eighty-six emigrants. In the same vessel the Protes- 
tant Episcopal Church sent out three missionaries, the Rev. Mr. 
Payne, and wife, and the Rev. Mr. Mitior, to join Mr. Savage, 
who was at the head of their establishment at Cape Palmas. 
The emigrants by the Niobe were all from Maryland, and 
nearly all of them persons of known good character, who had 
been accustomed to labour, and left America under the convic- 
tion that their happiness and prosperity in Africa were only to 
be secured by persevering industry, and not expecting exemp- 
tion from the toils incident to early settlers in a new country. 
It had been the wise policy of the Maryland society always to 
send out men of well known industry, and by keeping general 
native trade in the hands of the society, to make agriculture the 
main, and indeed, except in the case of mechanics, the sole oc- 
cupation of the colonists. 

The joint societies of New York and Pennsylvania continued 
resolutely and successfully to prosecute the enterprise at Bassa 
Cove. Portions of the state of New York, and especially the 
city of New York, had ever been active in the cause, and that 
city seemed to emulate and exceed every other, in devising 
plans and contributing means, for its promotion. The Char- 
lotte Harper arrived on the 4th of August, at Bassa Cove, with 
supplies for the colony to the amount of ten thousand dollars. 
The passengers in this vessel were the Rev. John J. Matthias, 
who had been appointed Governor of the colony, and his 
wife; Dr. Wesley Johnson, assistant physician to the colony, 
David Thomas, mill-wright, Misses Annesly, Beers, and Wil- 
kins, teachers, and Dr. S. Goheen, physician to the Methodist 
mission at Monrovia, and four coloured emigrants. 

The thriving settlement of Edina, separated by tiie St. Johns 
river from that of Bassa Cove, was this year, by an arrangement 
entered into between the American Colonization Society and 
the Pennsylvania and New York societies, transferred to the 
latter society, the people of Edina consenting thereto. This 
was a favourable arrangement for both settlements, as it united 
their strength and identified their interest, while it lessened the 
expenses of their government. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 535 

Mrs. Matthias and Miss Annesly both died in a few months 
after their arrival in Africa, and within two or three days of 
each other. These pious missionaries were intimately attached 
to each other in America. Together they consecrated them- 
selves to the cause of Africa, and together were called from the 
field which they had barely been permitted to enter and survey. 

Under date, December 18, 1837, Governor Matthias writes 
from Bassa Cove, " There is not a finer climate for the coloured 
man in the world, nor a soil more fertile. It is now summer. 
The thermometer for the month past has ranged from seventy- 
nine to eighty-four, and the season will continue until May, 
during which period the thermometer will not rise above eighty- 
six, 

"Although the ' Watchman'' has been pleased to ridicule 
our organization as a republic, nevertheless we are a State 
with all its machinery. The editor would be induced to change 
his views, were he to see our well dressed and disciplined 
troops, and their management of arms. I should venture no- 
thing in comparing them with the militia any where at home. 
And our courts of justice, of sessions, and the supreme court, 
the clerks and sheriffs, with the prosecuting attorney, with great 
readiness and order performing their respective duties. To 
see members of council gravely deliberating on matters of in- 
terest to the commonwealth and good government, together 
Avith merchants transacting their business with skill and pro- 
priety, is truly astonishing, considering the short period since 
our organization. Our chief clerk, for example, one of the 
children taken by the enemy in Ashmun's war, and restored 
after a detention of some months, besides being able to write a 
beautiful hand, can in a twinkling cast up any account and 
make calculations, without pen or pencil, in the sale of articles, 
•with as much accuracy as any of your merchants. 

" I am preparing to go up the St. Johns, to hold a palaver 
with six or eight head-men and kings, for the purchase of their 
country. A great change has taken place among them; they 
seem desirous of being allied to us, for the protection of them- 
selves against each other's aggressions, 

" We have now as fine a court-house as there is in Liberia. 
Benson has finished quite an elegant house, and others are 
labouring not only to stay here, but to live. The government 
house is nearly finished. We have laid out the yard into 



536 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

walks and grass plats ; on the margin of the walks we have 
planted the cotton-tree and papaw. I have just returned from 
partaking in an agricultural dinner, not given by us of the gov- 
ernment, but by the farmers. We had mutton, fish, and fowl, 
and a superfluity of vegetables. The table was set under some 
palm trees in Atlantic street; there were, I should judge, about 
fifty persons present. You need be under no apprehensions but 
that farming will go on. We mean to plant the cotfee-tree 
throughout our farms. 

"We have bought, of King Yellow Will, a large tract of 
beautiful upland. There are four native towns on it. King 
Yellow Will is, therefore, considered as allied to us by the 
neighbouring head-men and kings, who appear to be jealous of 
the honour and determined to share in it. They have sent me 
word that they would sell their lands." 

"It is astonishing," says the late Governor Pinney, "to wit- 
ness the influence of the colonies upon the natives. The natives 
look upon the colonists as a superior race of beings, because 
they possess a knowledge of social and political rights, and 
enjoy the blessings of a political community, reaping the re- 
ward of their own industry and enterprise. They seek to gain 
from them all the knowledge they can, placing themselves 
under the influence of their example whenever circumstances 
will permit them. There is, perhaps, as much diff'erence be- 
tween the colonists and the natives, in point of comparative 
intelligence, as there is between the whites and blacks in this 
country. Upwards of fourteen thousand natives, perfect savages 
ten years ago, have been brought under the subduing and 
benign influence of the colonies." But the influence of the 
colony operated not only upon the black man in its own neigh- 
bourhood. The remarkable case of the "Rio Expedition," 
though so lamentable in its issue, shows that the example of 
Liberia had begun to extend its influence even to far distant 
countries. Some time in the month of August, a company of 
two or three hundred blacks, living in and near Rio de Janeiro, 
who, by their industry and steady perseverance for years, had 
secured their freedom and acquired a considerable amount of 
property, chartered an English vessel to transport themselves 
and their efi"ects to Liberia, which they had heard of and looked 
upon, as the only country in which they could hope to enjoy, 
and transmit to their children, their dearly purchased freedom. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 537 

This interesting company left the scene of their former degra- 
dation and suffering with high hopes, and with the good wishes 
of many friends, whose kind interest had been enUsted in their 
welfare. It is painful to think of the terrible disappointment 
of these interesting people. Their fate is involved in mystery. 
Nothing has been heard of them since their embarkation, and 
there is great reason to suspect that the captain and crew of the 
vessel betrayed them again into slavery. 

Several new roads were this year laid out between the settle- 
ments, and into the interior. A weekly mail was established 
between Bassa Cove and Monrovia. The amount of revenue 
was thirty-five hundred dollars, and the amount of exports 
about eighty thousand dollars. The state of society continued 
to be orderly, and every where the authority of law was strictly 
regarded. The editor of the Liberia Herald, in a well written 
address to his patrons at the commencement of an editorial 
year, after lamenting the want of hveliness in the articles of 
his paper, and assigning, as one reason, the fact, that from pres- 
sure of business, he was compelled to do all his writing late at 
night, thus humorously introduces an additional reason, explain- 
ing the absence of piquancy and animation in his editorials: 
"Another most unfortunate circumstance, incident to our situa- 
tion, is the sameness of events; the tameness with which things 
go on in their unbroken course. Here are no striking events 
with which to vary and enliven the dull and monotonous nar- 
ration of ordinary life. No mobs, affording columns of matter 
in accounts of heads broken, houses rifled, magistrates resisted, 
laws defied, or any other of those brilliant events which gene- 
rally mark the reign of mobocracy. To this degree of refine- 
ment, at least, the citizens of Liberia have not as yet arrived." 
We shall close the history of the year 1837, with some ex- 
tracts from the letters of the colonists and others, containing, 
as they do, the opinions and statements of eye witnesses, and 
those whose practice has been a faithful comment upon their 
belief. 

We find at this date a letter of Mr. Samuel Benedict, a man 
of colour, who emigrated in 1835, from the state of Georgia. 
And it may not be improper to remark of him, that he was a 
man of superior mind. Without the advantages of education, 
he had risen, by the native force of his intellect, to a very con- 
siderable distinction as a scholar; by his industry, he had accu- 



538 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

mulated a competent fortune, and by his integrity had secured 
the confidence of all who knew Iiim. It may afford some 
knowledge of his tastes and attainments, to state, that upon his 
embarkation for Africa, he had in his possession a library 
containing such books as Henry and Clarke's Commentaries, 
Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History, Rollin's Ancient History, 
Blackstone's Commentaries, with a collection of miscellaneous 
works on divinity, medicine, and law. He thus writes from 
Liberia : " Instead of repenting that I am here, although I 
was well treated in Georgia, I would not return to live in the 
United States for five thousand dollars. There is scarcely a 
thinking person here but would feel insulted, if you should talk 
to him about returning. The people are now turning their 
attention to the cultivation of the soil, and are beginning to live 
within their own means. I believe that a more moral commu- 
nity is no where to be found than in Liberia; and I never saw 
more religious enjoyment in my life. I hope that God will send 
us good inhabitants — men of piety, and intelligence, and pecu- 
niary means — This is all that we want to render us a happy 
republic." 

Says Mr. G. S. Brown, who went out as a teacher with the 
Rev, Mr. Seyes, and concerning whom the New York Christian 
Advocate remarks, that in his address at the farewell meeting 
held in Green street, he highly interested the people by the sim- 
plicity of his manner, and the amount of plain good sense he 
displayed: "Never was there a man more disappointed of one 
place, than I am of Africa; nor were there ever more false- 
hoods told of one place, than there are about Africa; for you 
know, sir, that it is a common proverb in America, that Africa 
is a 'land that eateth up the people.' But if it be so, then there 
has been a mighty resurrection of late; for the land is highly 
peopled at present. I have been here four months, but have 
not attended one funeral in all the time — the people are as 
healthy here as they are in America. We have heard it said 
in America that Africa is a dry and barren land. But the fact 
is, there are gallons of milk pass my door every day, and I get 
what I want. Nor have I seen one Anak in Africa, but the 
natives bow at our feet as if ive were the giants. And now, if 
this is a 'land that eateth up the people,' I think it must be well 
first to 'eat up' some of the sweet potatoes, plantains, cassa- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 539 

das, bananas, beans, and cabbage, &c., which are rotting all 
around us." 

We have also of the present date, the testimony of another 
individual, giving a statement of things, addressed to the colo- 
nists themselves, who certainly knew whether the things were 
so or not, and not directed to a third party; and which, from 
the experience of the author in the practical observation of 
different plans of colonization, is perhaps one of the most 
valuable pieces of history to be found m the later records of 
the American Colonization Society. It is contained in a letter 
addressed to the editor of the Liberia Herald by W. Hutton, 
Esq. This gentleman was the agent of the Western African 
Company. He had spent twenty-seven years in Africa, had 
visited nearly all the settlements on the coast, and in many of 
them had resided for several years at a time, filling offices of 
high trust and responsibility under the British government. 
His letter is dated, Monrovia, 28th October, and is as follows: 
"Permit me, sir, as an humble individual visiting your colony, 
accidentally, to congratulate you and its respectable inhabitants 
on the state of prosperity and happiness which you now 
enjoy. 

" Having arrived in Africa twenty-seven years ago, during 
which period I have either visited or resided at most of the 
settlements on the coast, and have held some situations of im- 
portance under the British government in this country, my 
humble opinion of your colony may perhaps not be unworthy 
of notice. I will therefore proceed to give it to you without 
flattery or embellishment. 

"Previously to my landing here, I had expected from llie 
reports I had heard, to find nothing but a miserable little town, 
without either commerce sufficient to detain me a day, or an 
inhabitant to entertain me for a single hour. Judge then, sir, 
how agreeably disappointed I was on landing, to hear the 
friendly voices of the inhabitants inviting me to walk into their 
hospitable dwellings, and giving me assurances, which have 
since been realized, of barter for goods to the amount of several 
hundred pounds, and this too at a time when trade had long 
been interrupted by wars in the interior, and the day after a 
French vessel had carried off nearly ten hundred weight of ivory. 

"I was not less gratified to find a picturesque and pleasant 
little town, (fully as quiet, and not greatly dissimilar to an 



540 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

English country village,) with broad, well arranged streets, and 
good substantial houses, many of them built of stone, wilh glass 
windows, and the apartments large and convenient, well fur- 
nished, and neatly papered; these houses, delightfully situated 
on an eminence, commanding beautiful views of the sea, and 
surrounding country, and also of a fine river extending many 
miles into the interior, affording every facility to commerce, 
as well as a safe and convenient harbour for vessels of from 
sixty to one hundred tons burthen. 

"In addition to these advantages, which few of the settle- 
ments on the coast possess, I am desirous of bringing under the 
notice of the public, the temperature of the climate, the excel- 
lency of the water, and the fertility of the soil. In your gar- 
dens, which are in good order and well enclosed, I have ob- 
served fine cabbages, cucumbers, parsley, beans, and other 
vegetables, as well as the most delicious fruits, such as pine 
apples, oranges, grapes, guavas, sour-sops, the African cherry, 
melons, and lemons. 

"I must also do the inhabitants the justice to say, that they 
are a highly respectable, moral, intelligent people. Their su- 
perior intelligence, indeed, is sufficiently demonstrated in the 
columns of the Liberia Herald." 

The colony was visited this year, by Captain Nicholson of 
the United States ship Potomac. This gentleman was under 
government orders, remained some time at the colony, and was 
at particular pains to ascertain its true condition and its wants. 
As this, indeed, was his official duty, in as far as any portions 
of the colony were under government supervision, he would of 
course be naturally led to detect whatever defects were existing 
at the time. His presence at Liberia is thus noticed in the 
Herald : " From Captain Nicholson the colony has received con- 
siderable assistance in the way of supplies. He seems to take 
a deep interest in the colony, and has been at no small pains to 
obtain an account of the true slate of aflairs. His report there- 
fore, will be of importance to the colony, and we trust, cheering 
to its friends." We shall close this chapter with some extracts 
from that report. 

^^ United States shij) Potomac, Rio. 
" To the Honotirable, &c. the Secretary of the Navy. 

" I have the honour to inform you that we arrived at Cape 
Mesurado on the 20th November, whence we sailed for Bassa 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION". 541 

Cove on the 27th, and to make the following report of its state, 
as far as I could ascertain from my own observations, the 
reports of the authorities at Monrovia, and the information 
derived from the officers of the ship, 

"Its elevated location was selected with judgment; it may- 
be effectually fortified, and its anchorage is good. The popu- 
lation is about one thousand, and their exports amount to 
seventy-five thousand dollars annually, in camwood, ivory, 
palm oil, and a few hides; but at present their trade is much 
depressed in consequence of the wars among the natives. The 
forests abound with medicinal herbs, gums, and valuable wood 
of almost every description. About seventy vessels touch there 
annually, of which one third are Americans. Cotton, coffee, 
indigo, and the richest sugar-cane, are indigenous to the soil, 
and with encouragement and industry, could be procured in 
any quantities. The salubrity of the climate is found to in- 
crease, as the forests are cleared away. Vegetables of many 
kinds may be raised in plenty; and hogs, sheep, goats, and cows, 
appear to thrive. Fish in abundance are found in the streams, 
and it is generally admitted that a very comfortable subsistence 
can be procured by any man of moderately industrious habits. 
It is important that a greater proportion of farmers be sent 
among them, for on the product of the soil by their own labour 
must the settlers mainly depend. The settlement of New Geor- 
gia is certainly in advance of the others in agriculture. The 
schools at the settlements are generally well attended; the chil- 
dren make very good progress. The morals of the upper set- 
tlements generally stand fair. We arrived at Bassa Cove on 
the 2yth November, and I have great pleasure in saying, that 
those who visited the shore were agreeably surprised at the 
progress that had been made in clearing away the land, laying 
out streets, draining a piece of low ground, and building houses, 
as well for the actual settlers, as for those who are expected. 
The commissioner, Mr. Buchanan, deserves more praise than 
my report may confer upon him, for having re-established this 
settlement. Eleven months only have elapsed since Bassa Cove 
was a dense wilderness, and it now exhibits the evidence of a 
thriving village, and of an industrious people, obedient to the 
laws, and understanding their interests in maintaining them. 
The schools appear to be well attended by adults and children, 
of which the necessary good effects will be felt in their moral 
46 



542 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

influence over the natives. The population of Bassa Cove is 
about one hundred and fifty souls, occupying forty dwelling 
houses, efiectually defended by well placed pieces of artillery. 
The good understanding with the natives had been occasionally 
interrupted by the influence of the slavers; but on the appearance 
of this ship all diflerences were settled by a treaty between Mr. 
Buchanan and the neighbouring Princes, or Headmen, obliging 
themselves to renounce the slave trade for ever, and to be obe- 
dient to the laws of the colony, as far as applicable to their con- 
dition. The colonists at Cape Palmas appear to have profited 
by the wars of the older colonists, in avoiding as yet all trade 
with the natives of the interior, and devoting their whole ener- 
gies to agriculture. They have already in cultivation forty- 
seven farms, generally of five acres, on most of which the pro- 
prietors reside; and a model farm of fifty acres partly under 
cultivation. There are two native towns, of two thousand in- 
habitants, between Harper and the Farms, under the command 
of King Freeman; but the colonists appear to be on very good 
terms with all the kings and people of the neighbourhood, and 
I cannot refrain from expressing my agreeable surprise at the 
evidence of industry and foresight that was exhibited through- 
out the settlements. The ship was visited by King Freeman 
and King War; the latter is at the head of a powerful tribe in 
the interior. They were so much astonished at her size, that 
for want of language to convey their impressions to their friends, 
they measured her length and breadth with fishing lines. The 
only missionary establishment I liad an opportunity of visiting 
was that of the Rev. Mr. Wilson, who has about one hundred 
of the native children of different towns under his charge, and 
a few adults. I was pleased at the correctness with which 
many of them read from English books; and as some of them 
are the sons of kings, and may be kings themselves in time, it 
is impossible to foresee the happy eflect upon the civilization of 
the Africans, that may be produced by this school. The res- 
pective colonies being much in want of arms, ammunition, &c., 
for their defence, received from this ship in accordance with the 
instructions from the Department, all the aid that their circum- 
stances seemed to require. I would further say, that the colo- 
nies have now taken firm root in the soil of Africa; and though 
they may be depressed at times by adversity, yet by the gra- 
dual development of their resources, and the judicious assistance 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 543 

of their friends, they must finally flourish, to be an asylum to 
the coloured man, and an honour to their founders." 

By an authentic document in the nature of a report rendered 
this year to the " Boston Union for the Relief and Improvement 
of the Coloured Race," we are enabled to run a statistical pa- 
rallel between the people of the colony of Liberia, in Africa, 
and the free people of colour in the city of Boston, in America. 
In Liberia more than one in every four of the inhabitants are 
church-members; in Boston, less than one in every seven of the 
coloured people are church-members. In Liberia there are five 
hundred and eighty pledged members of temperance societies; 
in Boston there is not one, as appears from the tabular view. 
In Liberia every child of sufficient age of the families of the 
colonists, was at regular school. In Boston the proportion was 
so small and so uncertain as to be really not comparable. In 
Boston a primary school for coloured children had to be discon- 
tinued for want of scholars. In Liberia fifteen schools could 
not satisfy the people, clamorous for the education of themselves 
and their offspring. In Liberia the inhabitants support, both by 
their pecuniary and by their literary contributions, an ably con- 
ducted paper — they can not only generally read, but can general- 
ly write and compose in a correct and manly style, as our quo- 
tations therefrom abundantly testify. In Boston scarcely any of 
the adults were able to read, "and of children so reported some 
discount must be made." In Boston "a majority of all classes 
of them attend public worship very irregularly." In Liberia 
the people are a " peculiarly church-going people, nor could love 
or money influence any of them to labour on the Sabbath." 
The coloured population in Boston had decreased one hundred 
and eighteen within the last five years, and the proportion of 
unmarried persons was truly appalling, if the canons of political 
economy on this point be true, and we have the right thereby 
to infer the moral condition of the people. The additions to the 
census in Liberia, apart from emigration, have been more than 
suflicient to supply the losses by death, taking into account even 
the unusual early mortality by war and fever, and no tabular 
view of the population has ever yet indicated any thing but a 
healthy and harmonious state of society among them. If 
figures, therefore, are proper data upon which to form a con- 
clusion, surely no candid mind could hesitate long to decide 
in the light of the above illustration, which state of thina-s in 



544 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

the comparison, is most favourable to the development of the 
social, moral, and political condition of the African race. 

In a reported speech of a gentleman connected with the 
Maryland Colonization Society, we find a more particular ac- 
count of the origin and circumstances of Simleh Balla's visit to 
this country, than that contained in the last chapter, and as it 
contains some special colonization history, and is interesting on 
other accounts, we will gratify the reader by the following ex- 
tract. "Simleh Balla was the head man, or chief warrior of 
King Freeman, one of the most powerful, sagacious, and artful 
kings in all the region of the coast of Africa. Of this king, 
the Maryland Colonization Society purchased a part of the 
territory on the coast of Africa, now called Maryland in Libe- 
ria. This purchase was effected at a very dear rate, according 
to King Freeman's estimate of such matters, though in truth 
on very reasonable terms. The first condition he made in his 
terms of sale was twenty puncheons of rum. This condition, 
however, was firmly resisted by the agents of the society, and 
King Freeman was not only induced to abandon it on the 
ground that the society could not traffic in so ruinous an article, 
but was prevailed on to discontinue the use of it among his 
people. The value of this article was fully made up in things 
more serviceable to the king and his people, and the purchase 
effected. It was obvious, however, that the king had been 
induced in his own mind to make this sale of his territory, with 
the hope of aggrandizing his kingdom from the superior wealth 
and intelligence of the colonists. But it was not long before 
feelings of a different character began to mingle whh his reflec- 
tions, and give direction to his purposes. The superior intelli- 
gence of the colonists, which first inspired him with a desire to 
make them his neighbours, from a view to his own profit, 
began now to assume a different aspect, and excite in him a 
fear that all this appearance of honesty and benevolence on the 
part of the colonists, might only be with the ultimate view of 
supplanting him in his kingdom. The anxiety of his mind, 
under these corroding reflections, may well be imagined. He 
anxiously sought to ascertain the truth with regard to the 
motives of the colonization enterprise, and the real object in 
seeking to be neighbours to him. Why come so far? was a 
question fall of interest to him. He listened with profound 
attention to every explanation of this matter that could be 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 545 

given. He heard with pecuhar interest the accounts of Ame- 
rica; the wisdom and power of the nation, the splendour of 
their buildings, and the magnificence of their public works in 
general, and, above all, the kindness of the people in sending 
back the Africans to the land of their fathers. These relations 
atfected the king sensibly, but could not quiet his alarm, and 
only subjected his mind to still more painful alternations. In 
this state of mind, conversing freely on one occasion with his 
chief warrior, he said to him, "Balla, 'pose you go to 'Merica — 
you got my eyes — you got my mout — you got my ears. You 
see — you 'peak — you hear for me, you come back, tell me. 
What you see, I see — what you 'peak, I 'peak — what you 
hear, I hear. Den, all these things we hear be true, we be all 
'Mericans — have 'Merica book, and all be good like dem." To 
this, according to Balla's own account of it, he said, "I go." 
His particular friends, and especially his four wives, vehemently 
beset him to relinquish his purpose for fear of being murdered 
in America. To them he replied, "I go if I die." Balla is 
described as being physically among the finest specimens of 
man — large, full, and just proportions of body — free, open, and 
intelligent countenance, with a quick, penetrating eye, and alert 
manner of moving his head — as altogether a man of remarkable 
physical presence. He spoke in Baltimore, in broken English, 
receiving ideas with great rapidity, and making such improve- 
ment as indicated a very superior order of intelligence. The 
first sight of the city was confounding, and when he viewed it 
from the top of the monument, he was overwhelmed with emo- 
tion, and exclaimed, "Man no make all dis, God make him." 
His impressions on receiving the first correct ideas of God and 
the Bible, were remarkably natural and striking. His attention 
while one was attempting to convey to his mind an idea of the 
power and majesty of God, was intense. "Hah!" said he, 
"does God 'peak to you in dat book — let me hear him." He 
listened with an interest deep and profound, and at last made 
an exclamation which cannot be reduced to language, after 
which he asked this pertinent question — "Why he no send 
African man dat book too?" 



46^ 



646 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



CHAPTER XXXI 



THE COLONY IN 1838. 



At the twenty-second annual meeting of the society, held at 
Washington in December, 1837, the Hon. James Garland, Esq., 
of Virginia, addressed the meeting in an eloquent speech, of 
which the following extract contains the prefatory remarks. 
" Mr. President — I come from a slaveholding State, and from the 
midst of a slaveholding people, I was once a member of a 
colonization society auxiliary to this. I was its warm friend and 
ardent advocate, until the fanatical spirit of the Northern aboli- 
tionists manifested itself in a tone and in a strength, which 
threatened the personal security, as well as the rights of property, 
of the Southern people. I then became jealous; I strongly sus- 
pected that this society, looking beyond its professed objects, 
was secretly abetting the schemes of these fanatical crusaders, 
and encouraging them in their warfare upon the institutions 
and domestic rights of the South. With these suspicions I 
came here to be a spectator — a spectator, did I say ? — not a 
spectator only, but a close observer of your operations, that I 
might determine for myself, whether or not my jealousy was 
justified by your proceedings, and whether my suspicions were 
well-founded in fact. The noble and patriotic sentiments I have 
heard advanced upon this occasion, both at the meeting last 
evening, and at this, by many gentlemen of the North, who 
are supporters and members of your society; the determined 
spirit which they evince, to defend the constitutional rights and 
domestic institutions of the South against lawless and fanatical 
violence, satisfy me that my jealousy and my suspicions were 
unjust, being unfounded in point of fact. I take pleasure in 
repairing the injury which I have done the society. I feel 
entirely convinced, that the only object of the society is that 
which it professes — the colonization of the free people of colour 
in Africa — an object which the philanthropists of the North 
and South may cordially unite in promoting. And I now con- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 547 

fess, that the only feeHng of regret which I experience, is that 
of seeing not one Southern citizen participating in the delibera- 
tions of the society, except yourself, sir." 

Not only had the virulence of abolition-hostility to coloniza- 
tion, which broke out anew at this period, thus brought the so- 
ciety into disparagement at the South, but it had also obstructed 
its progress at the North; and the Board, in their report of this 
year, lament the embarrassed condition of their finances, and 
state that these, and other causes, had reduced the receipts into 
the treasury, since the last annual meeting, much below those 
of several former years. In these circumstances, the society 
deemed it advisable to direct their whole energies to the labour 
of restoring the altered state of their finances. Accordingly no 
emigrants were sent to the colony during the year 1838, by the 
parent society. 

Early in the present year, the managers consulted with many 
enlightened friends of colonization, who were members of Con- 
gress, then in session, on the exigencies of the cause, and on the 
adoption of measures for its advancement. Several public meet- 
ings in the national metropolis were, in consequence, held, and 
an address to the people of the United States, signed by many 
distinguished senators and representatives from different sec- 
tions of the Union, inviting aid to the society, and assigning in 
brief but emphatic terms the reasons of the invitation, was 
extensively circulated. An appeal, emanating from sources so 
high in public confidence, could not fail to produce salutary 
results. But these were perceptible chiefly in an awakened 
interest throughout the United States, in the objects of the in- 
stitution, and a disposition in quarters hitherto unfriendly, to 
listen to arguments in its behalf. The immediate pecuniary 
result was confined to the District of Columbia; and, though 
highly honourable to the patriotism and generosity of the con- 
tributors, was, of course, inadequate as a measure of relief from 
existing difficulties. That extensive benefit, in this respect, 
would have speedily ensued, had competent agents been de- 
spatched to the several States, was quite apparent. Vigorous 
and persevering efforts were accordingly made, as there had often 
before been, to obtain such agents; in every instance the com- 
pensation oflered was as liberal as the nature of the service, 
and the condition of the society justified; and in a few cases it 
was deemed judicious to propose extraordinary inducements, in 



548 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

order to attract to the service of the cause, talents and influence, 
of which the value had been tested in other situations. These 
overtures were met generally by hesitation; sometimes by rejec- 
tion; and yet oftener, after a partial acceptance, they were ulti- 
mately declined ; an indecision which accumulated embarrass- 
ments on the action of the Board. 

At this critical juncture in the affairs of the society, the cause 
found a friend and benefactor in Judge Samuel Wilkinson, of 
Buffalo, in New York. This gentleman generously volunteered 
his personal services and aid to the Board to Iielp them to ex- 
tricate the society from its pressing embarrassments. He nobly 
offered to take the personal superintendence of its pecuniary 
concerns, and went so far as to pledge a portion of his own 
property as security for his fidelity. Judge Wilkinson was 
accordingly appointed general agent of the society for the whole 
Union, with authority, under instructions from the Board, to 
commission, instruct, or remove such agents as he might deem 
necessary ; to fix the amount and the mode of their compensa- 
tion; to receive and apply to the payment of the debis of the 
society, the sums which might be collected by himself, or the 
agents of his appointment; and to adopt and execute such other 
measures in aid of the great object of the society, as he might 
deem expedient ; it being understood that he should keep the 
Board regularly and fully informed of his proceedings. Doubts 
existed as to the competency of the Board to delegate such 
essential portions of the trust which had been confided to them ; 
but a crisis was believed to have arrived which necessitated, 
and therefore justified, measures of unusual strength. Repre- 
sentations of Judge Wilkinson's high character for integrity, of 
his energy and ability as a man of business, of his extensive 
acquaintance throughout the Union, and of his disposition to 
make extraordinary personal sacrifices in behalf of the cause, 
determined the Board, that if so liberal a confidence could pro- 
perly be reposed in any individual, a fitter depositary of it could 
no where be found. Judge Wilkinson accepted the appointment, 
declining any compensation for his services, and promptly pro- 
ceeded to the execution of his duties.* 

Before Judge Wilkinson accepted this appointment, he 
had conceived a plan whereby he hoped fully to test the 

* Annual Report, January, 1839, Vol. XV. African Repository. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 549 

capability of black men for independent exertion and self-re- 
liance, in the conducting and management of enterprises, and 
at the same time to make this a means of educating them to 
these qualities. He proposed to raise subscriptions for the pur- 
chase of a ship, to be manned entirely with black men, and to 
ply as a packet between Liberia and this country. " The first 
idea of this project," says he, " was suggested to me by observ- 
ing that few coloured men in any section of our country are prose- 
cuting any extensive business, but they are generally engaged 
in subordinate capacities, and in performing the most menial 
services. Feeling a great desire for the elevation of the coloured 
man, I embraced every opportunity afforded by several visits 
to the Southern and South-western States of making myself 
acquainted with the condition of both slaves and free people of 
colour, and their susceptibility of elevation in this country. I 
found among the slaves as skilful mechanics as our country 
affords. The Dover Iron Works, among the most extensive in 
America, are carried on by slaves, from digging the ore, and 
cutting the wood for coal, to refining the iron, and rolling it into 
bars and plates, and the extensive and complicated machinery 
kept in the most perfect order. The mechanic labour on the 
plantations in the Southern States is usually performed by 
slaves. They are in fact the blacksmiths, carpenters, masons, 
weavers, and shoemakers, of the country, and their work is per- 
formed with skill and expedition. I am satisfied that the co- 
loured man is as capable of acquiring trades as the white man, 
and that the reason he is so seldom found in the Middle and 
Eastern States carrying on mechanic business, is not for want 
of ability to acquire the knowledge and skill, but on account of 
the difficulties and discouragements incident to his condition, 
and which are alike applicable to all coloured men who seek to 
elevate themselves in this country. The merchant will not 
employ them as clerks; the mechanic will not employ them as 
journeymen; should he perchance find such employment, he 
applies for board and is refused — other workmen will not eat 
with him; thus he meets at the very outset in life with difficul- 
ties which he cannot surmount. He may have education, and 
mechanic skill; of what avail are they so long as neither can 
be profitably employed? He has no one to take him by the 
hand and help him onward — his heart sinks with discourage- 
nient — he must either steal, beg, or accept of menial employ- 



550 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

ment — and instead of being surprised that so great a majority- 
are thus employed, it is a wonder that more are not vagabonds. 
It may be said that all these difficulties proceed from the wicked 
prejudices of a wicked world — be it so — their effects on the 
coloured man are none the less calamitous, and ages may roll 
away before these prejudices are corrected, and generations of 
coloured men may pass away to the grave, while their pro- 
fessed friends are setting the world right. My project offers 
present relief." 

This project was submitted to the Board at their annual 
meeting in 183S. A vessel was to be purchased, to be sold to 
such free persons of colour as would agree to man her with 
coloured seamen, and navigate her as a regular packet be- 
tween the United States and Liberia ; and payment was to be 
made by the conveyance in her of emigrants from this country 
to the colonial settlements in Africa. The plan was received 
with general and warm approbation. It was received with 
signal marks of favour at the North, where it was formally re- 
commended to the public, in an address, signed by distinguished 
Christians, philanthropists, and business men. Subscriptions to 
the amount of forty-four hundred dollars were speedily sent in; 
three thousand dollars by the New York Colonization Society, 
one thousand dollars by the New Jersey State Colonization So- 
ciety, and four hundred dollars by individuals. On his own 
private responsibility, generously pledged, Judge Wilkinson im- 
mediately purchased for six thousand dollars, the ship Saluda, 
of three hundred and eighty-four tons burthen, a fast sailer, in 
good order, with accommodations for one hundred and fifty pas- 
sengers, and well adapted to run as a packet-ship to Liberia. 

Elliott Cresson, Esq., ever the ardent friend of African colo- 
nization, and already the liberal benefactor of the society, both 
by his pecuniary contributions and his gratuitous services in 
Great Britain, felt himself impelled by the urgent necessities of 
the cause, again to enter the field. This gentleman now visited 
New England, and was every where well received; and met 
with considerable success in raising funds, but more in arousing 
the spirit of colonization, which in those regions had become 
dormant. 

The secretary of the society was also active in promoting 
the good cause in the Eastern States; and from the success of 
these efforts, it was rendered manifest, that all that was neces- 



HISTORr OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 551 

sary to collect funds in abundance, was to have a sufficient num- 
ber of good agents in the field. 

In New Jersey, a new impetus was given to colonization, 
by a convention of delegates from different parts of the State, 
which met at Trenton, established a State Colonization So- 
ciety, and adopted various measures for promoting the cause, 
which were attended with signal success. That success is to 
be attributed, in part, to the able and indefatigable labours of 
William Halsey, Esq., who at considerable personal sacrifice, 
withdrew from the practice of a lucrative profession, and de- 
voted himself to the service of colonization. 

In Maryland, the only State of the Union which has hith- 
erto made the colonizing principle part of its permanent policy, 
legislative aid enabled the society to act with conspicuous 
vigour and effect during this year. An expedition was sent in 
May, and another in November, to the colony at Cape Palmas. 
The last carried out a new accession of missionaries. They 
had, at this time, in and near the settlement, three regular mis- 
sionary stations, of different denominations; indeed so emi- 
nently provided with schools and missionary operations was 
Cape Palmas at this time, that it began to be called the " Se- 
rampore of Africa." From the report of the Board of Man- 
agers of the Maryland State Fund for Colonizing Purposes, 
and the society's report, it appears, that one hundred and forty 
new emigrants had been sent to this colony in the present 
year, making in all, nine expeditions; that the entire popula- 
tion of Maryland in Liberia amounted to four hundred per- 
sons ; and that their colony was in a very prosperous and 
promising condition. By the former report it appears that two 
hundred and four slaves had been manumitted in the state of 
Maryland, during the past year, and that the whole number 
manumitted since the passage of the colonization law in 1831, 
was fifteen hundred and eighty-one. Throughout the entire 
South and South-west also, the colonization spirit was reviving. 
In Mississippi an annual sum of fourteen thousand dollars had 
already been subscribed for the benefit of the state society, in 
establishing its colony at Sinoe, under the general control of 
the parent society. The Louisiana state society also adopted 
measures preliminary to the establishment of another settle- 
ment. 

The emigrants by the Emperor arrived in the early part of 



552 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

February, after a prosperous voyage. The Liberia Herald 
thus notices their arrival. "These people have all been 
bred to farming, and we hope they will prove an important 
accession to the agricultural interests of the colony. The 
physicians of the colony being united and unequivocal in 
their verdict in favour of the superior healthfulness of the 
inland settlements over that of Monrovia, these emigrants 
have all been placed at Caldwell and Millsburg, an event 
which will put this opinion to the test. Our opinion is that 
either place is healthful. There is no earthly occasion that 
coloured people should die in establishing themselves in Africa. 
Let them only avoid the actual and obvious causes of disease, 
(which is neither more difficult, nor more necessary to be done 
here, than in all countries,) and they may live their three-score 
years and ten, and if they should have on their arrival, good 
cheer and plenty, they may even attain their four-score years." 
In the early part of the year 1838, the Bassa Cove settlement 
received an accession of seventy-two emigrants, who came in 
the barque Marine, from Wilmington, North Carolina. This 
expedition was got up under the agency and superintendence 
of Mr. Buchanan. The emigrants were collected by this gen- 
tleman from difterent counties in the state of North Carolina. 
Forty of them were formerly the slaves of Mr. Elliston, of 
Elizabeth, in that State, who at his death provided by will for 
their emancipation, and left a considerable sum of money in 
the hands of his heir, to be appropriated to removing and set- 
tling them in some country where they might enjoy their free- 
dom in undisturbed security. It was found that the county 
records did not contain a copy of the will; and in the absence 
of all legal claim upon the heir of Mr. Elliston, the only alter- 
native was to appeal to his benevolent feelings and sense of 
justice. "This," says Mr. Buchanan to the society, "I am 
happy to say was not made in vain. As soon as he became 
acquainted with the character of the colony, and the unequalled 
advantages to be secured to his people by placing them under 
your patronage, he nobly resolved to give them up. For he 
had not failed to comply before with the generous intentions of 
their former master, through a selfish desire to profit by their 
continued servitude, but from an honest doubt whether their 
condition would be improved by a removal to the free States. 
In Liberia, he sav/ that freedom would not be to them an un- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 553 

meaning name, but a real blessing, and he hesitated not to 
confer it. Hr promised, also, to appropriate fifteen hundred 
dollars, as an outfit to them, on the sailing of the vessel." 
Several of the emigrants in the Marine were volunteers from 
among the free coloured people. At the close of a meeting 
held by the agent with some of these persons, a large number 
came forward and enrolled their names: others declared their 
intention to become citizens of the young republic, as soon as 
they could make the necessary preparations. One of them, a 
very respectable mechanic, of considerable property and great 
influence, expressed much regret that he was prevented by a 
large job of work on hand, from accompanying the present 
expedition, and declared that he should avail himself of the 
next opportunity to remove with his family to Bassa Cove. 

A number of highly respectable emigrants were collected in 
the counties of Bladen and Brunswick ; one of these, James 
Brown, from the peculiar circumstances of the family, deserves 
particular mention. The following interesting account of him 
is from Mr. Buchanan. " Brown was the favourite servant of 
an excellent lady, who had reared him, from a child, under her 
personal inspection. The interest which had led her to take 
special care of his infancy, and to watch with parental diligence 
over his early education, had grown with his maturing years 
into a firm and confiding attachment, and in her declining years 
he was her constant attendant, her adviser, her friend, and the 
staff of her old age. Under the good influence of his pious 
mistress, James, too, had become a Christian, and in the strict 
integrity of his character, and the faithful discharge of every 
duty, he illustrated the holy principles of his faith, and obtained 
the confidence and esteem of all who knew him. But his wife 
and children were slaves. He had married, early in life, the 
slave of a neighbouring planter, and now, when he saw his 
interesting family growing up about him, his cup of happiness 
was embittered by the reflection, that the wife of his bosom 
and the children of his care, were in bondage, and might at any 
moment be torn from him, by the will of another, and separated 
to a returnless distance. He heard of Liberia; and he imme- 
diately besought his mistress to intercede for the freedom of his 
family, and to send them and him to that country. At first, the 
feelings of the good old lady were wounded, and she wept at 
his supposed ingratitude in v/ishing to leave her; but when she 
47 



554 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

understood the full scope of his request, her generous heart 
responded to it, and she at once promised to use her influence 
in effecting the object of his wishes. In a few days, she an- 
nounced to him her complete success in procuring the freedom 
of his wife and six children. Then having provided amply for 
their comfort on the voyage, she presented him with four hun- 
dred dollars, as an outfit, and prepared to bid him a final adieu. 
But this was a trial almost beyond her strength. The noble 
determination which had hitherto supported her, at the moment 
of its consummation, gave way, and, for a time, she indulged 
her grief in a flood of tears. But again the heroine triumphed 
over the woman; and she gave them a parting blessing as they 
left her to join the expedition at Wilmington. A gentleman 
who was present, told me, he never witnessed a scene of such 
touching interest, as the parting of that grateful family with 
their protector and friend," 

It was in this expedition that Lewis Sheridan, a coloured 
man, who had acquired considerable property in North Caro- 
Hna, and who bore the reputation of being a man of extraordi- 
nary mercantile ability, embarked. It was known at the time, 
however, that he went not as a decided friend to colonization, 
but more from dissatisfaction with certain State laws that had 
been lately passed. He located himself at Bexley in the Bassa 
Cove settlement, where he refused at first to subscribe to the 
provisional laws of the society, but afterwards yielded the point 
when he found that he could not persuade the colonists to join 
with him in a petition to have them altered ; and commenced a 
farm of six hundred acres, upon which he employed over a hun- 
dred labourers. The only derogatory letter ever received in 
this country from a colonist, proceeded from Mr. Sheridan, 
soon after his arrival, and was extensively published in abolition 
papers. We shall take no further notice of this letter, except 
to refer our readers to the letter itself, and the answers to it of 
Governor Matthias and the Rev. Mr. Seyes, who happened 
to be in this country at the time, as found in Vol, XV. of the 
African Repository, pp. 33-44 ; and except to state, that the 
probable explanation of it is, that it was composed while the 
author was not only in a state of mental but of physical disease, 
and while momentarily suffering under the very natural feeling 
of wounded pride and mortification, arising from the fact, that 
Mr. Sheridan, as a colonist, was not received and treated with 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 555 

all that deference with which he used to be looked up to by the 
people of colour in his own neighbourhood in North CaroHna; 
and that it is altogether a thing of which Mr. Sheridan has long 
since deeply repented.* 

In the month of March, the Mississippi State Society sent 
out an expedition by the brig Mail, from New Orleans, consist- 
ing of thirty-seven emigrants. Tiiese were a fine set of men, 
collected from that State, under the agency of Mr. Finley. A 
farewell meeting was held upon the deck of the vessel, and a 
final address made to the departing emigrants, by the agent. 
The farewell scene between the emancipated slaves and their 
friends, was one of tender interest. " One person," says a 
spectator, "whom we remarked particularly, was an aged man, 
with grey locks carefully combed over his bald crown, and a 
general appearance of self respect which comported well with 
his dignified deportment and brawny proportions, which gave 
together quite the impression of a patriarch, as he stood with 
head uncovered, surrounded by a group of the younger emi- 
grants, listening with profound attention to their final instruc- 
tions. But his own children, we were told, were not present. 
He has for several years endeavoured to persuade them to go 
to Africa, setting before them all the advantages which they 
would derive from the change. But less enterprising than him- 
self, they have declined doing so, and he has at last resolved to 
leave them and visit the country himself, and persuade them 
subsequently by letter, if possible, to follow him. He is a man 
of considerable property, and has assisted several families be- 
sides his own in acquiring their freedom." Twenty-six of these 
emigrants had been set free by Mr. Anketell, who had taken 
much pains to prepare them for freedom and usefulness. The 
whole expedition was well provided with clothes, tools, and 
farming utensils. Working animals were purchased for them 
at the Cape de Verd Islands, and they commenced, immediately 
upon their arrival, with great cheerfulness the improvement of 
their farms, which they found already laid out for them. An 
agent had been employed to prepare houses, clear land, and 
plant vegetables, so that the emigrants, on their arrival, found 
good quarters, and an abundance of cassada, rice, and pota- 
toes. 

Their town, Greenville, is on the Sinoe river, five miles from 

* This man died a few months ago. 



556 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

its mouth, and about two miles in a direct line from the sea. 
This settlement is deemed as healthy as any part of the state 
of Mississippi, and the land is rich. The territory purchased 
by the Mississippi society is narrow on the ocean, widening as 
it runs back, and contains over one hundred square miles. 

An event occurred in the autumn of this year which cast a 
gloom over the infant, but prosperous settlement of Greenville, 
and in some measure, disturbed the peaceful relations existing 
between the colonists and the natives. About the 10th of Sep- 
tember the Governor left Greenville for Monrovia on business, 
as well as for his health. On his way he attempted to visit 
Bassa Cove. Landing about two miles below the settlement, 
he was robbed and murdered by the natives. The Governor 
seems to have placed too much confidence in a native whom 
he had with him, and to whom he had exposed the fact of his 
having a large sum of money about him. The faithlessness of 
this fellow in disclosing the circumstance of the money, no 
doubt occasioned the murder. This outrage led to a war be- 
tween the natives and the settlers of Bassa Cove, who had one 
or two of their people killed, several wounded, and some of 
their horses destroyed. Previous to the news of this outbreak, 
the most cheering intelligence had been received from the Bassa 
Cove settlement, of their health, their temporal and spiritual 
prosperity. 

In May the schooner Columbia, Captain Franklin, carried 
out thirty-six emigrants to Cape Palmas; making the tenth ex- 
pedition of the Maryland Colonization Society to their settle- 
ment. At the same time the Board of Managers of that society 
held a meeting, and resolved to proceed at once to the business 
of procuring and establishing a regular packet to their colony. 
The fall expedition of the Maryland society brought out fifty- 
three emigrants by the Oberon, with Dr. McDowall, now the 
Cape Palmas physician, and Dr. S. F. McGill, his assistant, a 
coloured man, graduated at Dartmouth College, New Hamp- 
shire. 

About this time the State Colonization Society of Virginia 
proposed planting a new colony, to be called the "New Plan- 
tation." Like the Maryland society, their managers, in their 
report, approve of the principle of independent State action. 
Some of the evils anticipated by many of the friends of the 
American Colonization Society in the establishment of separate 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 557 

settlements in Liberia, independent of each other, and under 
distinct governments, began now to be reahzed. In reference 
to this subject Lieutenant-Governor Williams, in a communi- 
cation dated May 8th, 1838, wrote as follows: "I regret to 
say, our neighbours of Bassa Cove and Edina seem to enter- 
tain the most hostile feelings towards the old colony, and every 
thing connected with it. They have manifested such a dispo- 
sition as will, if continued, lead to serious difficulties between 
the settlements. The policy which the colonizationists are now 
pursuing is assuredly a bad one, and will inevitably defeat the 
object they aim to accomplish. Nothing can be conceived 
more destructive to the general good, than separate and con- 
flicting interests among the different colonies. And this conse- 
quence will certainly follow the establishment of separate and 
distinct sovereignties contiguous to each other. If societies 
must file off, and have separate establishments, their very ex- 
istence depends upon their union by some general and well 
settled relations. They might be so far separated as to have 
peculiar local and internal regulations, but they should be con- 
trolled by general laws, and general supervision, and be so con- 
nected as to move on to one object in harmonious operation." 
The editor of the Liberia Herald expresses his views on the 
same subject, in these words: " The formation of colonies along 
the coast, is beyond doubt, the surest way of breaking up the 
slave trade, as far as their influence may extend. But while 
we view with much satisfaction, the success of the colonization 
scheme, and the formation of new settlements, we would ob- 
serve, that we deem it highly necessary that the several, and 
all the colonies now in existence, and those that may hereafter 
be formed, should be under the guidance of general laws; such 
a connexion would promote union, without which they could 
never prosper. Each settlement independently, should have 
its own laws and regulations for its internal government, like 
the several States of the Union, in America, and like them 
should be bound and cemented together by one general govern- 
ment, and by one common interest. Such a union, of so much 
vital importance to the future prosperity and peace of the 
whole, would elevate the character of the colonies in a degree 
to which they could not otherwise attain. By it moreover, 
their strength would be increased, as well as their permanency, 
according to a common but true saying, ^^ united we staiid.^' 
47* 



558 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Instead of a few isolated settlements, often at variance with 
each other from selfish motives and conflicting interests, they 
would then present to the view of the beholder a number of 
small settlements, or States if you please, forming a rising re- 
public in Africa of one people and of one language, after the 
model of the great union of America." 

Some of the Dey people, residing on the Little Bassa, had 
forcibly taken colonial property from persons to whom its 
transportation to Edina, had been entrusted. On satisfaction 
being demanded for this outrage, the Deys readily agreed to 
pay for the property taken, also, to pay a debt due by them to 
the colonial agent, and to secure the payment in four months, 
pledged a portion of their lands embracing the mouth of the 
Little Bassa, The time of payment having expired, a com- 
missioner was appointed to remind the Deys of their promise; 
but only a renewal of it was obtained. The colonization 
agent, acting in accordance with the spirit of his instructions 
to treat the natives with all consistent lenity, pursued persuasive 
measures to induce this tribe to comply with their engagements, 
for eighteen months without success, when he sent two commis- 
sioners to endeavour to bring them to an explicit settlement, who 
were instructed to make every exertion to conclude the matter 
amicably. But this, so far from arriving at any satisfactory 
termination, served only to manifest the most hostile feelings 
on the part of the natives. " Such equivocations and shame- 
less disregard of all agreements," says Lieutenant-Governor 
Williams, "the character and well being of the colony forbade 
me to pass without a prompt and decided expression of disap- 
probation. Accordingly, in April, I despatched other com- 
missioners, accompanied by an armed escort of seventy men, 
under the command of Colonel J. J. Roberts, to renew the 
endeavour of an amicable adjustment, and in the event of 
failing to do so, to take forcible and formal possession of the 
country pledged, in the name and behalf of the American 
Colonization Society. On the arrival of the commissioners at 
Bassa, they were for eight days amused by the same course of 
equivocation and evasion, which in this whole affair had 
marked the conduct of the natives, and on the eighth day they 
took formal possession in the name and on the behalf of the 
American Colonization Society, in right of the agreement 
entered into by the natives in relation to the debts. With 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 559 

regard to the justness of the method in which possession was 
taken, there can be no question. The land had been forfeited 
eighteen months anterior to this event, by an agreement entered 
into by the chiefs and the headmen in solemn palaver. The 
only object in treating thus with them, was to prevent any 
future impression, if possible, that it had forcibly been taken 
away from them. After the matter had proceeded to such 
lengths, and demands had been made by this government, 
there was no alternative. To suffer them to equivocate, and 
to violate every agreement, would have been interpreted by 
them as weakness on our part, and would have certainly led 
to insult and aggression. As soon as the natives became con- 
vinced of a determination on the part of the Americans to 
enforce an observance of their agreement, they prepared to 
retire from the country. Fear, and fear alone prevented them 
in the last instance, from meeting the commissioners. Conscious 
of the unjustness of their own intentions, and of the impro- 
priety of their own past conduct, no assurances of friendly 
dispositions could lull their suspicions so far as to allow them 
to place themselves in the power of the Americans. 

"The Bassa people have all the treachery and dishonesty of 
the other adjoining tribes, and much greater numerical strength, 
and more personal bravery. A portion of the Dey country, 
lying on the north of the St. Paul's, and of which the Board 
had ordered a purchase to be made, has also fallen into the 
hands of the colony, A shocking murder and destruction of 
property was committed in that country, on the person and 
property of an American settler, David Logan. Tliis outrage, 
though committed by Mandingoes, and with whom in the affair 
the Deys had probably no connexion, was of too gross and 
daring a nature to be passed unnoticed. A palaver of the chiefs 
and headmen was called at King Willey's in that country, and 
satisfaction demanded. They protested innocence, and de- 
clared that they were ignorant of the affair only from report. 
They were, however, reminded that it was a gross violation of 
a compact subsisting between them and the colony, by which 
they are bound to extend protection to all Americans in their 
territory, not only from the violation and imposition of their 
own people, but from all others; and further, that all matters 
of dispute in which Americans are parties, shall be referred to 
the Cape for adjudication. They were required to refund the 



560 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

amount of property destroyed, and to deliver up the murderers; 
all to be performed within six months, which they readily agreed 
to, and pledged a portion of their country as security. We have 
every evidence that, at the time they hypothecated the land, 
they had very little ehher of intention or desire to perform the 
stipulations. They were willing to settle the matter by ceding 
a portion of their land. Severer terms we did not feel justified 
in imposing, and less severe, we did not think would secure 
respect for the lives and property of our people." 

On the reception of these despatches from Lieutenant-Governor 
Williams, the Board directed an inquiry to be instituted into all 
the facts and circumstances of the transactions, called for copies 
of the contracts between the chiefs concerned and the colony, 
and in the mean time instructed Mr. Williams to refrain from 
taking possession of the territory pledged and forfeited, and to 
refund the amount of property destroyed. 

By the same despatches of the Lieutenant-Governor, it ap- 
pears that the native wars in the vicinity of the colonies con- 
tinued to rage with unabated fury. Jenkins, a chief of the 
Gorahs, had made an irruption into a town of the Dey tribe, 
and captured and murdered about two hundred persons. This 
was nearly the last town of any consequence left in the pos- 
session of that tribe. The Gorahs seemed determined on the 
extermination of that unfortunate people; "and," says Mr. 
Williams, "there is every probability they will effect their pur- 
pose. Should they succeed in extinguishing the Deys, I cannot 
at present say by whom the country will be inhabited — whether 
by the Gorahs or Condahs. In either case, I fear we shall have 
troublesome, restless neighbours. The Condahs are already 
occupying a portion of the country, and it is reported there are 
now several barricades from the coast to Bo-porah. If this be 
correct, the Gorahs will find in the end that they have con- 
quered a country, but not for themselves." 

After the arrival of the last expedition, the Governor writes: 
" I am sorry that the sugar mill did not come. I have about 
six acres of promising thrifty sugar cane, which I am appre- 
hensive will be lost for want of a mill to grind it. I am more 
anxious to succeed in manufacturing this cane, for the purpose 
of demonstrating the practicability of cultivating and manu- 
facturing the article with comparative ease, and thereby giving 
an impulse to the business, than for the benefit to be derived 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 561 

from it in this case. I am continuing to enlarge the sphere of 
cuhivation on the Pnbhc Farm. On this subject I am happy to 
inform you there is an astonishing improvement in the colony. 
The spirit of agricuUure is still on the increase; and each suc- 
ceeding month finds greater encroachments by the hand of 
cultivation on the surrounding forest." 

The reports of the different missions speak encouragingly 
of the progress of religion both in the colony and among the 
natives. "The society at New Georgia," says the Rev. Mr. 
Seyes, "prospers, and the school is doing well. At a meeting 
of several days' continuance at this place, it was hoped that 
many souls were converted; and among them several natives. 
Our hearts yearned over them, while we adored the goodness 
of that God who thus convinceth us of a truth, Mhat he is no 
respecter of persons, but that in every nation, he that fearelh 
God and worketh righteousness is accepted of him.' A sweep- 
ing reformation has also gone through the town of Caldwell. 
Old hardened sinners, of whom their fellow citizens had but a 
faint hope, have humbled themselves under the mighty hand 
of God, repented and forsaken their sins, and are now rejoicing 
in hope of the glory of God. Besides this, several natives have 
also been made the happy partakers of God's converting grace. 
Here let me remark, for the purpose of undeceiving a certain 
part of our friends in America, that though some of our native 
converts are right out of the bush, yet that many of them are 
individuals who have been residing in the families of the colo- 
nists, have been taught by them the knowledge of the Christian's 
God — have witnessed their pious examples, which have proved 
to them, savours of life unto life, and owe, in a great measure, 
their salvation to them as instruments in the hand of God. 
Away, then, with the notion, that the colonization scheme does 
nothing for the native African— that the missionary enterprise 
is confined to the emigrants, and that the natives benefit nothing 
by it. Let me stop the mouths of these gainsayers, by pro- 
claiming the names of Johnson, Williams, Davis, Devaney, 
Philips, TuUiver, White, Willis, &c. &c., American colonists, 
in whose families native boys and girls have grown up under 
godly instruction and pious example, and are now converted 
to Christianity, and members of Christian churches in Liberia. 
Let me add, that in this respect salvation has come too to the 
mission houses within your mission in Africa, and boys attached 



562 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

to our families and institutions have been born of God, Mills- 
burg — what shall I say about this spot? The wilderness is 
blossoming as the rose. The solitary place is becoming glad, 
and rejoicing for them who have been sent to cultivate the 
hitherto barren field, and to diffuse light amid the gross dark- 
ness. And, thank God, the darkness is comprehending the 
light. 0, sir, tliink what the Lord has done for us here. A 
society of eleven members, as reported little more than a year 
ago, has now grown to sixty-three. The White Plains Manual 
Labour School has been owned and blessed of God. We have 
among us converted to God, Africans, named J. 0. Andrew, 
N. Bangs, John Clark, P. P. Sanford, &c. &c., and these already 
begin to recommend this holy religion to others." We might 
follow this report throughout all the settlements in the colony, 
in all which the same hopeful appearances are manifest in their 
religious aspect. 

From the letters of Dr. Taylor to the Board, we make the 
following extracts. "I have the extreme satisfaction to inform 
the Board that there is nothing like the indisposition among the 
people in this place (Millsburg, which had previously been 
without a regular physician) that existed when I came here in 
February last. There are on my sick list at the present time, 
in a community of one hundred and ninety-six persons, seven 
patients; out of this number, only two are of the company that 
came out with me. Two are old persons, for whom medicine 
will do little or no good. Two, an infant and its mother with 
a cold — and the seventh a man who was so unfortunate as to 
have his arm fractured. There is one singular fact which ex- 
perience has taught me since I have been in Africa; and this 
fact is exactly the reverse of what has been the generally re- 
ceived opinion, both in America and Africa. The fact is this; 
that, if a man would enjoy perfect health in this country, he 
must take just twice as much exercise as would preserve health 
in the United States. I am fully persuaded that this is a true 
statement, from what I have experienced in my own case and 
what I have observed in others. The rains are now going 
off^we have a shower daily and nocturnally — the evenings 
and mornings are so delightful, that persons cannot content 
themselves in the house, who are in health. There is not 
a shadow of doubt, but tbat this place is vastly more suit- 
able for acclimation, than any other colony in Liberia. My 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 563 

patients are all convalescent — my patient, with fractured hume- 
rus, is doing well. In my treatment of the diseases here, I am 
guided entirely by the circumstances and situation of my 
patients. I prescribe for symptoms, not for names. Thanks 
to Dr. Lindsley for so deeply impressing my mind with the 
importance of this principle. If I was only an efficient bota- 
nist, I have a field before me that would serve me to explore 
during the balance of my hfe. A natural historian would find 
matter here to occupy his mind and pen, as long as he could 
live. I do not think that I have seen a greater variety of birds 
in the United States in twenty-nine years, than I have seen 
here in the short space of eight months. Morality increases 
astonishingly. Since I have been in Millsburg about sixty 
members have been added to the church. Was it not that an 
expedition is expected daily, and that it is the intention of the 
Lieutenant-Governor to send as many to Millsburg as possi- 
ble, I think I should come over with them, just to convince 
many who stand in their own light, opposing the scheme of 
colonization. I want to let the people with whom I am con- 
nected, and for whom I feel interested, know that it is not here 
as some would have them think it is. I think that if the bitter 
opponents of the colonization scheme would only come to 
Millsburg and look at the prospect, and see that all that is 
wanting to make this a splendid place, and the people inde- 
pendent, is means, they could but say, I will give my support 
to this enterprise. Though I advocate the elevation of the 
man of colour in America, I am now convinced that this is 
the place where he can enjoy real freedom. With regard to 
the morality of this whole community, it is very good and 
greatly on the increase. Religion is flourishing. During the 
year there has been an accession to the Methodist church 
alone, of one hundred and sixty-one members. On the night 
of the 8th of January, there was a missionary meeting held, 
at which there were twelve preachers who belong to the Libe- 
ria Annual Conference. At this meeting, by subscription and 
collection, I think more than one hundred dollars were secured 
for the missionary cause in Africa." 

At a colonization meeting held in the city of Newark, New 
Jersey, Mr. Brown, of Liberia, made an interesting address. 
He was listened to with the deepest attention, and there was 
that about him which declared him to be, not only a man of 



564 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

talent, but a man of sincerity and truth. He gave a cheering 
account of the social and moral condition of the people. He 
averred over and over again, that he knew of no settlements 
in this country, and he had travelled extensively, so free from 
open vice and immorality, or which enjoyed superior moral 
and religious advantages. His heart had been affected wUh 
the amount of intemperance and profaneness everywhere ex- 
hibited through our villages, but he had never seen a drunken 
man in Liberia— not one; and a profane word was rarely 
heard. "The truth is," said he, "that men are dependent 
there upon their moral character:'' The popular sentiment is 
a more effectual restraint upon vicious character, than the 
statute book, and when emigrants come in, they soon find that 
it is disreputable to violate the rules of decency and order. 

"There is one subject in reference to Africa," said Governor 
Matthias at a meeting in New York, " in which the people of 
this country have most erroneous ideas. I mean the climate. 
Many persons imagine that the thermometer always ranges 
much higher in Africa than in the United States, but such is 
not the fact. It is never higher than 86 or lower than 72, and 
tempered by a pleasant sea breeze, which so mitigates the 
heat, that with the thermometer at 86 the climate is delightful. 
Every one who possesses health, must enjoy life in Africa. 
Much had been said in relation to the unhealthiness of that 
portion of the country occupied by the colony. In answer to 
these objections he had brought with him a medical report of 
the mortality in Bassa Cove and Edina. From this report it 
appeared that from August 1837 to April 1838, the deaths did 
not average more than one per month, with the exception of 
the month of March, during which there were five deaths, 
three of which were of children only a year old. Amongst 
all the deaths which occurred during the period referred to, 
there was but one case of fever, and no case of a death occur- 
ring from disease peculiarly incident to the climate." Governor 
Matthias next adverted to the manners and behaviour of the 
colonists, and said that the first time he opened the court at 
Bassa Cove, he was utterly astonished at the perfect order 
and formality with which every thing was conducted by the 
coloured clerk, sheriff, and jury; and that when the trials were 
over, several of the audience approached him and congratu- 
lated him on his appointment, in a manner which would have 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 565 

been creditable to any people, no matter what their colour or 
country. In relation to the religious habits of the colonists, he 
could say, that in no part of the world was the Sabbath more 
respected. It was not only respected by the colonists, but even 
the natives had learned to respect it." 

A letter of Dr. Goheen, a very respectable and well edu- 
cated physician, attached to the Methodist mission at Monro- 
via, exhibits the most satisfactory evidence of the good charac- 
ter, contentment, and improvement of the settlers, as wonderful 
as it must be gratifying to every humane and Christian heart. 
It was remarkable in the case of Dr. Goheen that he entirely 
escaped every touch of the acclimating fever. This was quite 
unprecedented in the history of any white man that ever re- 
mained for any length of time in the country. Mr. Seyes 
explains the fact, when he says, "that while we attribute his 
exemption from disease, primarily to the kind interposition of a 
gracious Providence, it would be injustice in me, and an injury 
to those who come after, to withhold the fact, that such is the 
extremely temperate and abstemious life of Dr. Goheen, in all 
things; such his lynx-eyed vigilance at every minutige which 
might invite disease, and his great self-denial in the use of what 
may be termed only the common comforts of life, that I wonder 
not < the pestilence which walketh at noonday,' can find no spot 
in his system on which to rest even the sole of its foot." It 
may be well for white persons hereafter visiting Africa, to keep 
this in mind. We know that it was the same strictness of 
attention to diet to which the first missionaries to Cape Palmas 
attributed, under God, their health and preservation; and that 
they adopted such a regimen, not only after they had touched 
the shores of Africa, but by way of anticipation for a consi- 
derable period before they embarked from this country, and 
while on the passage. 

Says Dr. Goheen: " It is a source of great pleasure to me to 
be able to inform you that all the colonies are in a prosperous 
condition. The vigorous exertions and anxious devotedness 
which characterize the efforts of the citizens to elevate and 
establish themselves permanently, in the possession of privi- 
leges, moral and political, almost amount to enthusiasm. 

" The people are industrious and persevering in their attempts 
to gain a comfortable livelihood, temperate and economical in 
their habits, and appear to be really enjoying life. 
48 



566 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

" It is a mistaken idea, that among the colonists there are con- 
tentious and dissatisfied spirits, who long for the ' flesh pots of 
Egypt,' and desire to turn back and enjoy the 'proud man's 
contumely' in America. No, no; there are here no restless 
persons, nor any who would give up their possessions in Africa 
for any station, no matter however elevated, in the country 
where they cannot have equal rights, but must ever be looked 
upon as the dark and degraded sons of Ham. Many to whom 
I have put the question — would you prefer to return to Ame- 
rica, and live bondmen as you have been? have replied in sub- 
stance — no, sir, we would rather remain here, possessed of half 
the privileges and happiness that we now have, than go back 
and be reported freemen in any of the States. 

"I have inquired diligently, and 1 have yet to find the first 
man who would leave Liberia for a residence in America, on 
any terms. 

" This account you will find fully corroborated by the nu- 
merous letters written by the colonists, and sent to their afflicted 
brethren throughout the Union. I am aware that it is not cre- 
dited by some; but if men are not themselves the best judges 
of their own enjoyments and feelings, and are not to be believed 
when they thus publicly testify of the blessings and comforts 
which they possess, I ask, what portion of this comnuuiity is it 
that is better qualified to decide?" 

Again, observes Dr. Goheen: 

<' It is utterly impossible for you to form a correct estimate of 
the amount of good that has resulted from the means thus far 
expended, unless you were here to observe with your own eyes 
the changes wrought. The man who was a slave in America 
is here a free citizen ; the plebeian and the servant there, the 
lord of the soil here ; there the degraded child of affliction, here 
the claimant and the occupant of the highest office in the gift 
of a free people. Here there are colonists of all professions and 
trades ; governors, divines, lawyers, physicians, and mechanics. 
Here are those who possess wealth and live at ease; here the 
inhabitants enjoy all the comforts and luxuries of a soil the most 
fertile, well watered, and best timbered, that I have ever seen. 
And here permit me to ask, why do you colonization folks, in 
every address that you make, speak of the burning sands and 
barren shores of Africa? Because in the vast continent of 
Africa the Zahara desert is found? Where is the continent 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 567 

that has no desert ? Ts there not a great desert within the terri- 
tory of the United States? England, and other Enropean 
nations, get all their ship-building and other timber from Africa. 
The coast from Senegambia, southward, presents an almost 
impregnable forest, which contains a much greater variety of 
trees than you have in the States, and also a sufficiency to 
supply the world for centuries. But, to return : there is here 
every possible inducement to prompt and stimulate the emigrant 
to action ; a rich soil, a great variety of vegetables, and a ready 
market. The authorities of this town have recently established 
a market, which overflows with the products of the country. 
The comforts possessed by the farmers, mechanics, and mer- 
chants, far surpass the opinion that you would form of them, 
unless you could be present, to be received into houses splen- 
didly furnished, and well provided with all the luxuries that 
are usually found in the possession of citizens of refined and 
populous towns. 

*'The moral and religious state of society, is very good; this 
is emphatically a church-going community. In this town we 
have a 'Moral Friendship Society,' a ' Union Sisters of Charity 
Society,' a 'Female Benevolent Society,' a 'Missionary Society,' 
a flourishing ' Temperance Society ;' and to the above list, we 
have recently added a ' Liberia Lyceum.' The Lyceum is well 
attended, and promises to bestow much lasting good upon the 
citizens. 

" From the above facts, it is evident, that your cause is a good 
one, and has been blessed and prospered by heaven's hand ; it 
has found favour in the sight of God and man; it is fraught 
with considerations the most ennobling; it demands from every 
well-wisher of the human family his sufl'rage, and appeals 
directly for assistance to all Christian believers in the coming 
millennium." 

Governor Russwurm, of Cape Palmas, concerning the new 
code of laws which had been with great care prepared for that 
colony, writes: "We are all much pleased with the new code 
of laws. The powers of the judges are well defined, and will 
save, among an ignorant community, much contention. I have 
not heard even a murmur against the code, though it strikes at 
the root of many preconceived opinions." He added: "The 
people are civil and orderly; no properly established law of the 
colony has ever met with open opposition; no violence has ever 



568 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

been threatened to the lawful authorities. No instance of riot 
or general uncontrollable excitement has occurred, and no in- 
stance of open quarrelling or fisticuffs has come to my know- 
ledge, directly or indirectly, since the first establishment of the 
colony." 

The four settlements of Monrovia, Bassa Cove, Greenville, 
and Maryland, contained in all ten villages. Tiie population 
had increased to five thousand, of which three thousand five 
hundred were emigrants from this country, and the remainder 
natives of Africa, mostly youth, who had come into the colonies 
to learn "'Merica fash," and make themselves "white men," 
by conforming to the habits of civilization, and becoming sub- 
ject to their laws. 

The commerce of the colony, though in its infancy, was 
already extensive. From eighty thousand to one hundred and 
twenty-five thousand dollars was exported annually, in cam- 
wood, ivory, palm oil, and hides; and an equal or greater 
amount of the manufactures and productions of Europe and 
America, brought into the colonies in return. Monrovia had a 
considerable coasting trade by means of small vessels built and 
owned by her own citizens; not less than twelve or fifteen of 
these, averaging from ten to thirty tons burthen, manned and 
navigated by the colonists, being constantly engaged in a pro- 
fitable trade along seven hundred miles of coast. 

The harbour of Monrovia was seldom clear of foreign vessels; 
more than seventy of which, from the United States, England, 
France, Sweden, Portugal, and Denmark, annually touching 
there. 

Of the Temperance Society, formed in 1834, more than one- 
fifth of the entire population liad become members. At Bassa 
Cove, and Cape Palmas, the sale and use of ardent spirits were 
prohibited by law. In the other colonies, the ban of public 
opinion as effectually prohibited dram-drinking, so that no 
respectable person would indulge an appetite so disreputable. 

The number of churches had increased to eighteen: Baptist, 
]Methodist, Presbyterian, and Episcopalian. There were forty 
clergymen in the colonies, and all the churches not only regu- 
larly supplied with preaching, but religious meetings weekly 
held in the native villages. 

Seven hundred of the colonists, or one-fifth of the whole 
population, were professed Christians, in good standing with 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 569 

the several churches with which they stood connected, Sunday- 
schools, and Bible classes, were established generally in the 
churches, into which, in many cases, the native children were 
gathered with those of the colonists. 

There were ten week-day schools in all the settlements, sup- 
ported generally by education and missionary societies. The 
teachers in most cases were coloured persons. 

In some places, as at Bassa Cove, literary societies had been 
formed, on the plan of village lyceums in this country. With 
some were connected museums for the collection of natural curi- 
osities. 

At Bassa Cove and Monrovia there were public libraries for 
the use of the people. The one at the former place numbered 
about fifteen hundred volumes. 

The colonies have a well organized and efficient militia. 
The officers and men exhibited a degree of enthusiasm in the 
performance of their duty seldom witnessed elsewhere; and on. 
field-days their neat and orderly appearance, their thorough 
discipline, and the promptness and precision of their evolutions, 
commanded the admiration of observers, who had seen more 
famous soldiery. They had also a number of volunteer corps, 
regularly uniformed and equipped. 

The government of the colony had now for a long time de- 
volved upon Lieutenant-Governor Williams. With the efficiency 
of his labours the Board were fully satisfied; and they fre- 
quently renew the expression of their general satisfaction with 
the ability, prudence, and economy of his administration. He 
was ever a faithful and laborious man, and it was well for the 
general interests of the colony that the departure of the last 
Governor left its affairs in the hands of one, who by his expe- 
rience and ability was so well qualified to superintend them. 
But it was the opinion of the Board that the time had not yet 
arrived when the interests, present and prospective, of the 
colony would permit it to remain permanently under the govern- 
ment of a colonist. We took notice in our last chapter of the 
arrangement entered into between the directors of the diflerent 
colonial establishments on the coast, with the exception of that of 
the Maryland State Society, by which they agreed to form them- 
selves into an united government under the general direction of 
the parent society, under the name and style of the "Common- 
wealth of Liberia." At a succeeding meeting of the Board 
48* 



570 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and delegates, this plan was consummated, and a temporary 
arrangement was also made with the Mississippi society, 
whereby their late colony was received into the common- 
wealth. Under the new arrangement a general Board of Di- 
rectors was established and appointed, and Thomas Buchanan, 
Esq., was appointed Governor of the commonwealth. About 
the same time Mr. Buchanan received his commission from the 
United States government, as agent for the recaptured Africans 
in Liberia. He embarked on board the society's ship Saluda, 
which also carried out some emigrants to the colony from New 
York and Norfolk. He was provided by the society with a 
large quantity of trade goods, agricultural implements, a sugar 
mill, Sic; also, means of obtaining, at the Cape de Verd islands, 
a supply of working animals for the colony. Government at 
the same time ordered a vessel to the coast from which the 
colony was furnished with a much needed supply of arms, 
ammunition, cannon, naval boats, and stores. 



CHAPTER XXXIL 



COMMONWEALTH OF LIBERIA UNDER GOVERNOR BUCHANAN. 

With the year 1839 commences a new era in the history of 
the American Colonization Society. The Board announced 
with confidence, that there never had been a time, in the his- 
tory of colonization, when there was so much to encourage 
the friends of this noble enterprise. In every section of the 
country a new and efficient interest was awakened. An in- 
creased spirit and activity began to show itself in all directions. 
The demand for knowledge, in the public, was greater, and 
there was a larger number of agents in the Afield, than had 
been at any previous time. This demand was answered, 
especially, by the eloquent and indefatigable Gurley, in Ohio, 
and other parts of the West and South-west, and by the phi- 
lanthropic Cresson in New England. These ancient and well- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 571 

tried friends to the cause, and to humanity, were again in the 
field, silencing the rage of raalignants, stopping the mouths of 
gainsayers, and every where by their arguments and their elo- 
quence multiplying new and stimulating the old friends, in the 
cause. The attention of commercial men began, also, to be 
aroused to the importance of the colonies in view of their in- 
exhaustible resources of commercial profit. It was shown that 
although the British government had expended more than thirty 
millions of dollars on the Sierra Leone colony, they still thought 
themselves fully recompensed in securing the trade of middle 
Africa, that a very large amount of British shipping was already 
employed in it, that large quantities of British goods were 
carried into the interior by colonists and native merchants, the 
most valuable and portable articles of produce being received 
in return, consisting of ivory, gums, and gold dust. In addition 
to these articles, a very large coasting trade was carried on in 
cam-wood, palm oil, teak, and other wood for ship building, 
besides an unknown variety of the most beautiful and valuable 
woods for ornamental furniture. Mr. Elliott Cresson, examined 
before a committee of the House on the foreign slave trade, 
in February, 1839, stated in answer to the question, ''What 
will be the commercial and political advantages to the United 
States, from an intercourse with the colony of Liberia?" 
"Among the valuable articles of export, wax and spices are 
obtained in large quantities. The India rubber tree grows 
wild in the neighbouring woods, and ostrich feathers have been 
exported largely. Hides could be obtained in any quantities; 
so could rose wood, lance wood, and palm wood, and live oak 
of the best quality. One merchant in Philadelphia last year 
imported from the colony a quantity of pea or ground nuts, 
from which he reaUzed the profit of twelve thousand dollars. 
Cotton, of a very good staple, is found there, and cultivated 
wiih great advantage as there is no frost there. And the arti- 
cles desired in return, are those produced by American manu- 
factures and agriculture." 

In view of the almost unlimited resources of trade as offered 
by the African continent, commercial men might find it very 
much to their advantage to consult the chapters in Sir T. F. 
Buxton's work on the African Slave Trade and its Remedy, 
and Kennedy's Report, Twenty-seventh Congress, on African 
colonization, slave trade, and commerce. "It is very possible," 



572 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

says one of the most enlightened statesmen of onr country, 
"in fifteen or twenty years, the commerce of Liberia will em- 
ploy a greater amount of American tonnage, than is now em- 
ployed in the trade carried on with all the northern powers of 
Europe, to whom we send ministers and agents, and of whose 
favour and proceedings we are so jealous on account of that 
trade." "The Americans," says the Westminster Review, 
"are successfully planting free negroes on the coast of Africa; 
a greater event probably in its consequences than any that has 
occurred since Columbus set sail for the new world." 

The health of Governor Buchanan suffered severely for seve- 
ral months after his arrival at the colony; but this did not pre- 
vent him from entering immediately upon the arduous and 
complicated duties of his office. The day after his inaugura- 
tion he commenced the tour of the colonies, and set himself at 
once to correcting whatever defects were apparent in the colo- 
nial system, and placed its administration upon such a footing, 
that from this time, if never before since the days of Ashmun, 
we perceive a dignity and order connected therewith which 
constrains us to yield it that respect and homage which it is 
natural for us to yield to every regular government. No one 
can read the despatches, or watch the measures of Governor 
Buchanan, without feeling at once that he beholds the evidences 
of a truly great and remarkable character. Almost his first 
public act was the seizure of a vessel under American colours 
that had long been hovering on the coast under circumstances 
which clearly evinced that she was a slaver, and sending her 
home for trial. This was a bold step, and one exposing him- 
self to much personal risk; "but," says lie in explaining this 
transaction to the General Agent at home, "could you see, my 
dear sir, as I see, the multiplied miseries that this devilish 
traffic is daily inflicting upon this unhappy country, you 
would, like me, forget every pecuniary consideration in your 
desire to destroy it. At this moment the whole country along 
the northern bank of the St. Paul's river is involved in bloody 
wars. Whole districts are laid waste; towns are burned. The 
old and the young who are unfit for the market, are butchered, 
and hundreds and thousands are driven in chains to the coast, 
or compelled to fly the country. Within the past month, a 
whole tribe, including several kings, have fled their country 
and come to us for protection. But I cannot tell you the ten- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 573 

thousandth part of the evil. Fire, famhie, blood, and chains, 
are the necessary elements of the slave trade, and every con- 
ceivable combination of these elements are daily produced in 
this wretched land. 0, my country! how enormous is thy 
guilt in this matter — how deep thy debt to poor Africa!" 

By the same promptness and decision was Governor Bucha- 
nan actuated in reference to another measure connected with 
the same subject, and involving a question equally dubious and 
equally hazardous, at which ordinary minds would have faltered. 
We will narrate the circumstances of this occurrence in his own 
words. 

"Little Bassa, as you are aware, has been for years the theatre 
of considerable business, carried on both by the colonists and 
foreigners, and the subject of colonial jurisdiction over the coun- 
try has been the theme of much discussion here and in America. 
But, though the right of soil claimed by the government here 
last year was questioned by the Board, (and, in my opinion, 
justly,) I believe they have never forbid the right of jurisdic- 
tion, which has been clearly acknowledged as belonging to the 
colony in several treaties with the native princes and headmen. 
On my arrival here in April last, I assumed the right of our juris- 
diction over the territory along the seaboard, as to foreigners 
especially, as indisputable, and ordered a slaver who had esta- 
blished himself there, to leave within a given time on pain of 
liaving his property confiscated. This trader had been some 
months here, and had been ordered away in November pre- 
vious by Mr. Williams, the acting governor, and again a short 
time before my arrival, both of which orders he treated with 
contempt. To my message, however, he saw fit to return a 
very courteous answer, promising obedience, but alleging the 
want of a suitable vessel to remove his goods, and requesting 
time for that purpose. I replied that suitable time would be 
granted on condition that he desisted from the further prosecu- 
tion of his business, and again positively forbade his buying or 
selling slaves while he remained there. About the same time 
an English trader established what is here called a factory for 
regular trade, and put a small amount of goods ashore in charge 
of a native factor. Him also I ordered off, and threatened the 
seizure of his goods in case of refusal. He treated my message 
with great rudeness, and positively refused to leave. The slaver 
in the mean tiine having obtained renewed assurances of pro- 



574 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

tection from the native princes, began to enlarge his operations, 
by extending his baracoon, adding to his stores, and making 
every arrangement for a large and permanent establishment. 
And to my further remonstrances he now paid no attention, 
feeling himself too strong and well backed to fear my authority. 
In this juncture I could not hesitate as to the course to be 
adopted, and determined at once to maintain the rights of the 
colony at all hazards. My arrangements were soon made, and, 
without any previous intimation of my design, I ordered a mili- 
tary parade on the 18th ultimo at 7 o'clock, p. m. When the 
men were assembled, I stated to them briefly what had occurred, 
and declared my intention of proceeding immediately against 
those foreign violators of our laws. To my call for forty volun- 
teers who were willing to hazard their lives in defence of the 
government, a ready response was given, and I had the plea- 
sure of soon seeing my number more than complete. The next 
day I despatched an order to New Georgia for twenty-five 
volunteers, to be ready that evening if required, to join the 
JVIonrovians. These faithful fellows, (recaptured Africans,) who 
are ever ready at the call of their adopted country for any ser- 
vice, turned out to the number of thirty-five, and reported 
themselves ready for instant duty. I then chartered two small 
schooners, which, with the government schooner Providence, 
were to proceed with a supply of ammunition by sea, and be 
ready on the arrival of the land force to cooperate in such 
manner as might appear advisable. 

"These measures were taken on Friday and Saturday, (the 
first intimation of the expedition having been given on Thurs- 
day evening,) and on Monday morning, the 22d ultimo, at 9 
o'clock, the men took up the line of march under command of 
Mr. Elijah Johnson, (the veteran hero of the memorable defence 
of Monrovia,) and in a couple of hours afterwards the little 
fleet put to sea in gallant style, though a strong head wind and 
heavy current prevented their passing the Cape that day. 

"Mr. William N. Lewis, the marshal of the colony, was 
charged with the direction of the expedition, and in the execu- 
tion of my orders, (which were strictly of a civil character,) was 
only to employ the assistance of the military force in the last 
extremity. In my addresses to the men I took the greatest 
pains to impress upon them the idea, that the expedition was 
not for war or plunder, but solely to sustain a civil oflicer in the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 575 

discharge of an important duty. And I enjoined npon them 
the duty of orderly deportment, obedience to their officers, and 
the strictest discipHne, particularly in reference to the property 
and feelings of the natives through whose country they might 
pass. When the men were formed in line, and ready to march, 
I found the number had swelled to about a hundred, so great 
was the enthusiasm in favour of the expedition. 

"Tlie wind continued unfortunately to blow up the coast the 
whole of Tuesday, and on Wednesday morning, to my conster- 
nation, I saw our small vessels putting back around the Cape, 
having been about sixty hours in vain attempting to get to sea. 
You may imagine my feelings at that moment; I can never 
describe them. The worst apprehensions for the fate of the 
expedition filled my mind. Thus deprived of the assistance of 
the schooners, their small supply of ammunition and provisions 
would soon be exhausted in an emergency, and they might be 
left in the midst of enemies without the means of resistance or 
retreat. It was at this moment of gloomy forebodings that Sir 
Francis Russel arrived and put the fine, fast sailing schooner 
Euphrates (a captured slaver,) into my possession. My plan 
was adopted on the instant, and, landing her captain and crew, 
I went on board with arms, ammunition, &c., and proceeded 
immediately in person to Little Bassa. Within two hours and 
a half of the time I received her papers, I had her under way 
in her new service, from the harbour. At daylight on Friday 
morning, the 2Gth ultimo, we were at anchor off Little Bassa, 
and before we could distinguish objects through the early dawn 
on shore, I despatched a canoe to learn the state of affairs, and 
to acquaint our people with the news of my arrival. In a few 
moments the opening day began to reveal a scene of thrilling 
and fearful interest. In the midst of a small opening in the 
forest about a hundred and fifty yards from the beach stood the 
baracoon, a circular palisade fence about ten feet high, en- 
closing some half dozen houses of native construction, from the 
sides of which we could distinctly see the flashes of guns follow- 
ing each other in quick succession, while from the woods 
around a continuous blaze burst forth toward the baracoon from 
every quarter. Here was war in open view closely and fierce- 
ly waged; but of every thing else we could only form conjec- 
tures. Whether our friends were in the baracoon or the woods — 



576 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

doubt. Soon, however, we were relieved from one source of 
anxiety by the return of the Krooman, who had landed a short 
distance below the baracoon, and obtained information from 
the Kroomen there of the progress of the battle. His first 
words were, when within hailing distance, " Dem live for fight 
dare now. 'Merica man had baracoon — countrymen lib woods 
all round — fish men stay brack. Pose you go shore, Gobeno, 
you catch prenty balls." It was now a matter of some doubt 
what course to pursue. The Euphrates was well known as a 
slaver, and should we attempt to land in a body, our own peo- 
ple taking us for Spaniards coming to reinforce the enemy, 
would certainly fire on us, and perhaps retreat from the bara- 
coon. To convey information to them, then, and learn their 
position and wants was an object of the first interest. An 
American seaman volunteered to carry a letter to the baracoon. 
I told him it was a mission of danger. He answered, •' Never 
mind, I will go." Accordingly, I despatched him with a note 
to the commander of our force ashore. As I had foreseen, the 
appearance of the Euphrates had caused great alarm among 
our people, and when they saw a second canoe from her land- 
ing a wliite man, it was at once concluded that it was for the 
purpose of concerting measures with the natives for a combined 
attack on the baracoon. Consequently, Mr. E. Johnson made 
a sally from the baracoon to cut off the white man, and, most 
providentially, he had just landed and fallen among the enemy, 
who, discovering his real character, were about to despatch him 
with their knives, when Johnson's party rushed furiously upon 
them and compelled them to a hasty flight. The fellow who 
held the sailor, and who was busy with his knife at his throat, 
was shot down, and the poor sailor was thus happily released 
at the last moment. After the canoe left with my letter, I be- 
came so impatient to give those ashore our assistance, that I 
could not wait the return of the canoe, but, having watched 
her till she was beached, and knowing if successful she would 
have conveyed information to our friends before we could reach 
the shore, I mustered our little party in two boats and pushed 
off. The canoe returned first after we had started. The Kroo- 
men seemed highly excited, and told us they had been fired 
upon in landing, proof of which was given by a ball hole 
through both sides of the canoe. As we approached the shore 
we could observe distinctly the movements and position of the 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 577 

combatants. Both sides of the narrow path leading to the 
baracoon were Hned with natives concealed by the close bushes, 
and the surrounding wood seemed literally alive with them. 
Along the path thus guarded by a watchful and savage enemy 
we had to pass; it was a fearful gantlet, but no man faltered. 
We kept boldly onward to the shore, each man with a loaded 
musket on his knee. When about fifty rods from the beach, a 
small party of five or six came out of the woods to fire at us, 
but without waiting their salute, I rose in the stern sheets, and 
taking deliberate aim fired into the group, upon which they 
scattered instantly without firing a gun. In landing I got cap- 
sized, but, though nearly drowned, I held on to my musket and 
carried it ashore safely. 

" The revulsion of feeling among those in the baracoon from 
the greatest alarm at the approach of a supposed enemy to sud- 
den joy on finding a reinforcement of friends with supplies of 
ammunition, and having command of the harbour, was, as may 
be supposed, extreme. Caps were tlirown up, and loud and 
repeated huzzas greeted me as I crossed the threshold of the 
baracoon. For a moment all seemed to forget the presence of 
the enemy, and even the shower of balls which came rattling 
around them were unheeded in their eager rejoicings. But it 
was only for a moment; each man again rushed to his post and 
engaged with new zeal in returning with interest the heavy 
fire from the woods. 

"I now ordered the houses without the palisade to be des- 
troyed. Of these there were some fifteen or twenty which had 
hitherto aflbrded a fine cover to the natives. This work was 
accomplished with great promptitude, though the men were 
exposed to a galling fire while engaged at it. I then directed 
Mr. Johnson to take a party of thirty or forty men and make a 
sally into a thicket of wood from which we were most severely 
annoyed, and drive the natives from it. This duty he perform- 
ed with his accustomed bravery, and cleared the woods, when 
a party of axemen followed and soon levelled it, so that we 
now had a considerable space on three sides clear of bushes 
and houses. The enemy kept up a continuous fire throughout 
the day from diff'erent points, though whenever we charged 
upon them they fled precipitately. At two different times I 
headed parties in these charges, and made excursions of nearly 
a mile through the woods and along the beach. We burned 
49 



578 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

two small towns which were deserted, but could not get near 
enough the enemy to do him much injury. 

" Soon after my arrival at the baracoon, (as we had now 
quiet possession of the path to the beach,) I ordered the Kroo- 
men to commence shipping the property seized by the mar- 
shal; and this work was continued industriously all day, while 
the rest were as industriously fighting and guarding the Kroo- 
men in their labour. At dark we drew up the boats and canoes 
within the barricade, and closed the gates, when the firing 
ceased on both sides, and our wearied men were permitted a 
little rest, which was taken, however, upon their arms. 

" The next morning at sunrise the battle was renewed by our 
indefatigable enemy, who gave us thus early a full salute from 
a dozen places at once. I occupied the upper story of a native 
built house, the walls and partitions of which were of matting, 
and afforded no other protection than that of concealment. At 
every discharge from the enemy their slugs and balls rattled 
through and through it like hail. 

"This morning, Mr. E. Johnson led a party through the 
woods into an open rice field, where he encountered a con- 
siderable party of natives, and after a brief contest routed and 
drove them off, but not without sustaining some injury. He 
received himself two wounds, and three of his men were 
wounded, some in two or three places, but none seriously. 
An examination being now made of the state of our ammuni- 
tion, I was astonished to find the stock growing low, so 
immense had been the consumption of this article during the 
last four hours. Fearing a scarcity, should the fight be con- 
tinued much longer, as seemed probable, I determined to re- 
turn to Monrovia for more. Accordingly, about noon I em- 
barked in the government schooner Euphrates and sailed for 
this place. I arrived here at eleven o'clock that evening, and 
immediately gave orders to get the necessary supplies. The 
next morning our town presented an un-Sunday-like appearance. 
Drums were beating, soldiers gathering, the boats were plying 
on the water, and all was bustle and excitement both in doors 
and out. So great was the expedition used in the despatch of 
business, that at two o'clock, p. m., we had on board forty 
more volunteers, two field pieces, fourteen thousand ball car- 
tridges, with all the necessary et ceteras, and were again weigh- 
ing anchor for the scene of action. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 579 

" The reason of my taking such a reinforcement of men was, 
that information which I tiiought could be rehed on had been 
given me on Sunday morning, that Lang, the Enghshman 
whose factory at Little Bassa we had destroyed, had obtained 
the cooperation of the Prince of Tradetown, and was on his 
way to join the natives at Little Bassa. The character of Lang 
rendered this probable, and so many other circumstances con- 
curred to corroborate the information that I could not doubt it. 
Every thing depended, then, upon our reaching the battle 
ground and making our arrangements first. Contrary winds, 
however, prevented our getting there until Tuesday morning? 
when lo ! about a mile before us appeared a large brig standing 
directly into the anchorage ground. Those of our party who 
knew Lang's brig declared it to be her, and of course we had 
nothing to expect but a battle with her at once. I ordered the 
six-pounder to be cleared away for action, and the men mus- 
tered to man the boats for boarding. All was ready in a few 
minutes for the action, which seemed inevitable, when we had 
the pleasure to see the brig turning her head towards the lee- 
ward and soon afterwards she was out of sight. Whether it 
was Lang or not I have as yet not learned ; we saw no more 
of him. On landing I found the fighting had not been renewed 
after I left, and immediately I despatched messengers to Prince 
and Bah Gay, the two chief princes of the country, demanding 
the instant surrender of the slaves, (which on the approach of 
our party had been carried off by the slaver to the natives,) 
and requiring them to come in and make peace within twenty- 
four hours or expect my severest chastisement. These messen- 
gers returned in the evening, bringing word that Bah Gay and 
Prince would both meet me on the beach the next day with 
the slaves, and comply fully with all my terms. Having now 
completed the shipment of all the goods found at the baracoon 
and sent our wounded on board the schooner, I proceeded to 
complete our arrangement for the homeward march so soon as 
the treaty should be concluded. The next day a white flag 
was displayed on the beach about half a mile from the bara- 
coon, (now named ' Fort Victory.'') I sent a small party out 
to meet it, who on returning informed me that Bah Gay was 
M'aiting some distance further up the beach, but was afraid to 
approach nearer. I immediately marched out with an escort 
of seventy men to meet his majesty, who, after a good deal of 



580 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

delay, came forth from the bush where he had been secreted all 
the njorning. About three hundred warriors attended him as 
a body guard, but in the midst of this host he exhibited the 
strongest indications of fear. Before saying a word he put into 
my possession two slaves, (one had been sent in the evening 
previous,) and informed me that the rest, ten in number, were 
in possession of Prince. After some conversation, in which he 
deplored in the strongest terms his folly in making war upon 
the Americans, he subnjitted to the terms of peace which I dic- 
tated, and signed a treaty which I wrote on the moment upon 
a drum head, acknowledging our jurisdiction over the country, 
pledging himself never to deal in slaves again, and agreeing to 
make full compensation for all the property destroyed by his 
people belonging to our traders during the war. 

" The chief headman and about thirty of Prince's people were 
present, who declared most solemnly that Prince was on his 
way to the beach with the slaves. I told them if he came that 
day he should have peace, otherwise I should regard him as an 
enemy, and take the earliest opportunity of carrying war into 
his country. 

"We then marched back to Fort Victory with our freedmen 
in the centre of the column. In the evening another slave was 
brought in with a message that Prince would be at the beach 
at daylight the next morning with the rest. Morning came, 
however, without bringing his majesty, and, after waiting till 
after sunrise, I ordered the encampment to be broken up, and 
the march to be commenced, and with the four freedmen went 
on board the schooner. After seeing the troops well under way, 
we weighed anchor and proceeded to Monrovia," 

On the 1st of August the Saluda sailed from Norfolk, Virgi- 
nia, with thirty-nine emigrants for the colony at Monrovia. 
The return of this vessel brought the most cheering news from 
all the colonies. The Episcopal mission at Cape Palmas, had 
been greatly enlarged, and a letter of the Rev. Mr. Payne gives 
a delightful account of the state of religion in that settlement. 
The Annual Report of the Methodist Conference also speaks 
of the great moral and religious prosperity within their bounds. 
At home, a proposition was maturing for pushing the influ- 
ence of the colony into the interior, by means of a public high- 
way, and thus eventually obtaining a site for a mountain 
colony. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 5S1 

A letter from Captain Bell, of the United States brig Dolphin, 
contains a large amount of valuable and highly interesting in- 
formation respecting the colonies. He observes, "that the most 
intelligent among the colonists are those who had been longest 
in the colony, and were formerly slaves. The editor of the Li- 
beria Herald, (a man of talent and education,) the colonial 
secretary, the lieutenant-governor, the storekeeper of the colony, 
(a place of great responsibility,) were slaves; and old Colonel 
Johnson, the hero of five wars and many encounters with the 
natives, was also a slave. This last person was one of the first 
settlers, and, with eighteen men, defeated upwards of one 
thousand, during the time of Ashmun. This was the turning 
point of the settlement; a defeat would have exterminated 
every man, woman, and child in the colony," 

Says Lieutenant Paine, "my opinion of the importance of the 
colonies, is quite changed from a nearer view of their actual 
state and capacities. I had supposed them weak, and their in- 
fluence limited. I found them exercising a moral influence 
calculated to do more for the cause of humanity than I had be- 
lieved possible, from the restricted means of the society in the 
United States." 



CHAPTER XXXIIL 



WARS WITH THE NATIVES. 

We have spoken in a former chapter of the wars which were 
raging among the native tribes. The Dey tribe was par- 
ticularly unfortunate in these wars, and the remnant of this 
miserable people being expelled from their country, took re- 
fuge in the colony. A number of them were living on some of 
the colonists' farms, near Millsburg, peaceable and safe as they 
supposed, under the protection of the colony, when suddenly 
a savage chief by the name of Gatoomba burst upon them, 
49* 



582 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

wounded four in a dreadful manner, and carried twelve into 
slavery. The whole number, about twenty, would have been 
killed or captured, had not the people of Millsburg, providen- 
tially been alarmed by the reports of the guns, and gathered 
hastily to the rescue. As soon as the report of the alarm drum 
was heard, the marauders fled precipitately. An express was 
sent immediately to Governor Buchanan, informing him of this 
outrage, who immediately hastened to Millsburg; and as the 
people feared another attack from the dreaded Gatoomba, 
he took immediate measures to guard against it. The gun 
carriages were put in order, and an additional supply of 
small arms and ammunition were sent up, while the strictest 
watch was established in the environs of the town. Governor 
Buchanan, also, sent messengers to Gatoomba, with a letter 
demanding an explanation of his hostile conduct, and asking 
him to come to Millsburg and hold a palaver. To this message 
an insulting answer was received, and an intimation from the 
chief that he was prepared for war, and though he did not 
intend attacking the Americans, he would not allow them to 
interfere with him. Governor Buchanan was at Millsburg on 
the receipt of this reply, but he immediately returned home, 
assembled some of the principal officers of government, laid the 
matter before them, and stated his impressions, that Gatoomba, 
flushed with his recent success, would make a descent upon 
Millsburg, and that the only way to protect that place, as well 
as to vindicate the character and authority of the colony, was 
to anticipate him, and march without a moment's delay to 
attack him in his town. All the officers agreed with Governor 
Buchanan in this decision, but thought it better to send another 
message to him in hopes the difficulty would be accommodated 
without bloodshed. Without going farther into the detail of 
this negotiation, five messengers were sent to the town of 
Gatoomba, but as they approached the gate of his baracoon 
they were fired upon, and three of them were taken prisoners. 
In the mean time the Legislative Council assembled, and Gov- 
ernor Buchanan laid the whole matter before them, and a 
imanimous resolution was passed, approving of the course 
which had been adopted, and placing all the resources of the 
colony at his disposal. 

Things remained in this state until the 8th of March, when 
suddenly Gatoomba burst upon Heddington, and would have 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 583 

murdered all in the place, if they had not been in a measure 
prepared for it. 

Governor Buchanan after the first assault had the precaution 
to send up to Heddington some muskets and a good supply of 
ball-cartridges, which were placed in the hands of the mission- 
ary, Mr. Brown, and at the moment of attack they were all 
loaded in his chamber. Two Americans from Caldwell, by the 
name of Demery and Harris, were fortunately living in Mr. 
Brown's family at the time. 

On one side of the town was a large open field of cassadas, 
near which Mr. Brown's house stood. Here the attack was 
made about daylight, by some three or four hundred savages, 
led on in person by the cannibal. Gotorah. As they marched 
through the cassadas, the whole field seemed darkened with 
them, and they set up a yell that made the whole forest re- 
sound. Demery and Harris quietly stepped out of the house 
and took their stand by the side of the picket fence, which sur- 
rounded the house, where with the most admirable coolness 
they awaited the terrible onset. The enemy came pressing on 
like a furious torrent, without order or caution, certain of glut- 
ting their fiendish passions in the blood of their victims; but 
when they had almost reached the fence their course was sud- 
denly checked by the deadly discharge of Demery and Harris's 
muskets, which stretched several of the leading warriors on the 
ground. Before they could recover from their surprise. Brown 
opened upon them from an upper window, and for some minutes 
kept up a regular stream of fire upon the crowded and con- 
fused mass, which did great execution. Nor were his two 
brave associates idle after their first timely discharge. Scorn- 
ing the protection of the house, they stood in the open yard, 
exposed to a perfect storm of slugs, spears, and arrows, and 
loaded and fired with great rapidity and precision. One of 
them happened to have a bag of buck-shot, which they poured 
into their muskets by handfuls, and the effect upon a crowd 
of human beings, at the distance of ten or fifteen yards, when 
every ball and shot must have told, may be imagined! Seve- 
ral times the savages gave ground under this tremendous fire, 
but as often returned with increased fury to the onset. At 
length, when the action had continued nearly an hour, and the 
little party at the house was almost exhausted and nearly des- 
titute of ammunition, Gotorah made a desperate rush upon 



584 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

them, at the head of his best warriors, towards one end of the 
house; he tore off some of the pahngs with his own hands, 
leaped the fence and pushed his way within ten feet of the door, 
where Harris stood alone and without his gun, which being 
discharged, and the enemy too near to reload, he had thrown 
down for the purpose of seizing an axe, which he supposed 
stood behind him; as he threw his hand backward to seize the 
weapon, only hoping to sell his life the more dearly, he struck 
a gun, which a moment before had been placed there by a 
wounded native of the town, and which most providentially, 
had a heavy charge of slugs and ball. Whh the eagerness of des- 
peration he clutched it and wheeling, poured the whole contents 
into the body of Gotorah, who fell to the ground a mangled 
and hideous corpse. This decided the contest ; the death of 
this famous leader struck a panic into the rest, and they made 
but few and feeble efforts afterwards to continue the fight. 

At the time of this encounter, Governor Buchanan was at 
Bassa Cove, and an express was sent for him to return; on his 
arrival he found that the place had been fortified and a guard 
of thhty men placed, a renewal of the attack being dreaded. 

The people of the upper settlements were thrown into a 
great state of alarm in consequence of this battle, and because 
it was reported that Gatoomba with a large force was about to 
make a descent upon Millsburg, and take vengeance for the 
death of Gotorah and his warriors who had fallen at Hedding- 
ton. Governor Buchanan, from the circumstances of the case, 
deemed it his duty to bring the afl'air to a speedy termination; 
and he determined to make a sudden descent upon Gatoomba's 
stronghold, which was distant about twenty miles from Mills- 
burg. 

On Monday morning the 23d of March, he commenced 
preparations for his march, and on the next day he embarked 
nearly two hundred men, with arms, ammunition, and a week's 
provision, in boats for Millsburg. "Every thing," says Gov- 
ernor Buchanan, " was in readiness for the march, and the 
order was given to move at daylight the next morning, 
when news was brought me that a powerful chief from Bo 
Poro was at Mam-ma Town, at the mouth of St. Paul's 
river, with a large party of armed men. Whether his pur- 
pose was friendly or otherwise it was impossible to ascertain; 
but as there was considerable ground to suspect the latter 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 585 

feeling, I thought it imprudent to leave him so near Mon- 
rovia in our absence. It was now ten o'clock in the evening, 
and I countermanded the order for the morning march, and 
started off myself with twenty armed men for Mam-ma 
Town, which we reached just at the dawn of day. The chief 
readily consented to accompany me to the camp, and to remain 
there during my absence on the expedition. Accordingly, we 
again embarked, the chief Go-no-nomina in company, and after 
a pull of six hours reached Millsburg. Thus we were detained 
twenty-four hours. Friday morning the 29th, we took up the 
line of march about sunrise from Millsburg: our whole force 
amounted to three hundred men and one piece of artillery. 
From this number are to be deducted some sixty Kroomen, 
employed as baggage carriers, and about forty native allies, 
who proved, instead of being useful, the greatest burden; so 
that the whole number of effective fighting men was two hun- 
dred. After dragging the cannon about six miles with incredible 
labour, through swamps and over creeks, we found it was de- 
laying the march, and wearing out the men to such a degree 
that the object of the expedition would probably be sacrificed 
if we persevered in carrying it with lis. It was accordingly 
drawn aside, and concealed in the thick bushes, and we pro- 
ceeded without it. The rain fell in torrents throughout the 
forenoon, and we were all drenched and thoroughly ftitigued, 
wlien at 2 p. m. we reached the ruins of an old walled town, 
that had been destroyed by Gatoomba in one of his old robbing 
excursions. There were several little huts standing, and as the 
ground was high I determined to encamp for the night, in order 
that the men might refresh themselves for the fatigues of the 
coming day. 

"Our fires were kindled, guards posted, and after getting 
such a dinner as we could, the whole camp was soon disposed 
to rest. The next morning long before daylight we stood to 
our arms, and with the first gray light the line was formed and 
we resumed our march. The path was so narrow that we had 
to follow each other in single file— but to give you an idea of 
the other difficulties is out of the question. The rains of the 
two preceding days had swollen the streams and flooded the 
swamps, and the chief alternations of the route, were mud to 
the knees, and water to the waist. However, we struggled on 
as we best might, making only one halt about ten o'clock to 
get a morsel of breakfast, and give the men a moment's rest. 



586 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATIOX. 

" It was about three hours after this, as we were ascending a 
long hill from a deep muddy ravine, that the enemy com- 
menced the attack upon our front, from an ambuscade pre- 
pared by felling trees across the path where it made an abrupt 
angle. The first fire brought the brave Captain Snetter of the 
rifle corps, to the ground, mortally wounded — but his men 
rushed gallantly forward and dislodged the savages so quick 
that tiie march of the line was scarcely checked. As we could 
no longer hope to conceal our approach, the music was ordered 
to strike up, and we advanced more cheerily to the sound of the 
drum and fife. The remainder of the way, nearly six miles, 
they continued to annoy us from front to rear, the thick close 
wood giving them every advantage to shoot at us, while they 
were entirely concealed from view. I can conceive nothing 
more disheartening to the bravest men, than thus to be exposed 
to the fire of an unseen enemy, in a wild forest, where there 
is no chance of defence or retaliation. However, though several 
were wounded, not a murmur was heard, and the men con- 
tinued silently and rapidly to push on to the point where the 
great struggle was to take place. At length the line was halted, 
and the word came from the front that we were near the town. 
The order of battle was then commenced, and we again moved 
on. In a few minutes a tremendous roar of musketry from the 
front announced our vicinity to the barricade. I ran up from 
the centre with my aids, Colonel William Lewis and General 
Roberts, to the margin of the open field, where we found two 
companies of the first division, under Colonel Johnson, warmly 
engaged with a party in ambush on their right, and also in 
front with the people of the town, who had opened a heavy 
fire from the port holes of the walls with muskets and swivels. 
By this time a third company had got clear of the woods and 
joined the combat. As soon as I saw the position of affairs, 
I ordered General Roberts to lead off" two companies, as they 
came up to the left ; and if possible, surround the town. He 
immediately put himself at the head of Captain Yates' company 
of infantry, the only one that at the moment seemed available, 
and made a rush through the field, and around an angle of the 
wall towards the opposite side of the town. Yates and his 
men most gallantly seconded the General in this daring move- 
ment, under a heavy fire. The enemy seeing this rapid dash 
at his rear gate, became panic struck, and abandoning the con- 
test, fled from the town, with the greatest precipitation, to the 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 587 

woods; and we entered victorious at almost the same moment. 
I was with this little band, and had the honour of entering the 
barricade among the first. So sudden and unexpected was the 
capture of the town, that the men on the opposite side con- 
tinued the fire, and for some minutes we were in great danger 
from their bullets. Captain Charles Johnson, of the artillery, 
and Lieutenant Richardson, of the rifle corps, were seriously- 
injured in the engagement; also a young man from Caldwell, 
mortally. It is impossible to express my admiration of the 
courage and good conduct of all engaged in this most important 
expedition. I might specify many who fought under my own 
eye as having distinguished themselves, but this would be 
unjust to the large number who, in other parts of the field, 
acquitted themselves equally well. One word I must say of the 
wounded, however; they fell in the front rank with their faces 
to the fire, fighting bravely." 

By this bold and energetic measure. Governor Buchanan en- 
tirely prostrated the strength of Gatoomba. These hostilities, 
which terminated in favour of the colony, caused the whole of 
the chiefs of the Dey tribes to come into the colony, and beg 
for renewed assurance of protection. This was willingly givea 
to them, and, as a guaranty, the whole of their country was 
purchased lying on the north side of the St. Paul's river, from 
its mouth to within three or four miles of Millsburg, a distance 
of twelve or fourteen miles, and extending back from thirty to 
fifty miles. 

Some have expressed the opinion that Governor Buchanan 
was not justified in this expedition against Gatoomba; that the 
circumstances did not warrant such decided measures. Mr. 
Pinney, in a letter to a friend, has answered these objections, 
and proved that the honour and even the existence of the 
colony depended upon these energetic measures. He says, "I 
answer unhesitatingly, that if war is ever justifiable for the pro- 
tection of the unoffending and defenceless, this was peculiarly 
so. It was in the strictest sense a war of self-defence. Having 
just returned from Liberia myself, and having an intimate ac- 
quaintance with the facts of the case, and the causes which 
originated the war, I have a better ground for my opinion than 
any can possess, who have only seen the statements and letters 
lately made public. The facts are briefly these: Two powerful 
tribes north of Monrovia, and in the interior, the Codoe and 



588 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

Gonlat, have been engaged five years in continual war with 
each Other — partly originating in a desire of conquest, and 
partly from avarice, which could only be satiated by making 
slaves. Their distance from the colony, for a long time, pre- 
vented any other interference of the colonial authorities than 
the occasional effort to become peace-makers. But in the course 
of the war, they gradually approached the territories of the 
colony, by robbing, and plundering, and carrying into slavery 
the defenceless inhabitants of the Dey country. Thousands of 
these have either been murdered, or carried away captive, and 
the small remnant have either fled into the colony of Liberia, 
or on to the banks of the St. Paul's next it, for safety and pro- 
tection. Their cruel persecutors and conquerors took possession 
of this country, and thus became the neighbours of the colony. 
This occurred about one year ago, and the editor of the Liberia 
Herald, a coloured man, in a most able article written at that 
time, predicted the probability of a severe contest between them 
and the colony, which stood as the only bulwark between them 
and the weak remnant of the Deys, Queahs, and Bassas, upon 
whom they were ready to fall in a continuance of their con- 
quest and warfare. In a few months, the impatience of one of 
their chiefs, Gatoomba, led him to venture an attack, not upon 
the colonists, but upon a small village of the poor Deys, who 
had settled in the outskirts of Millsburg. This attack was made 
without provocation and by surprise ; it was made about day- 
light; it was made in the territories of the colony, and resulted 
in taking twelve captives, who were soon after sold into slavery, 
besides mortally wounding and maiming several others. The 
colonists in Millsburg hastened to the scene of murder and rob- 
bery as soon as possible, else the whole village might have been 
taken away. Governor Buchanan upon learning these facts, 
immediately sent a messenger to Gatoomba to demand the re- 
lease of the captives, and reparation for the wrong done to the 
colony. The reply was one of insult and scorn. The governor 
was told that Gatoomba had a war to fight, and he wanted no 
colonial interference; and intimated an attack upon the natives 
of King Tom's Town, or Heddington, where the Methodist 
mission was then in successful operation under Mr. Brown, 
some of whom he claimed as runaway slaves. 

"Uponreceiving this reply, Governor Buchanan immediately 
sent arms and ammunition to Heddington and Millsburg — 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 589 

called out the militia of Monrovia and Caldwell, and proceeded 
to Millsburg to build a fort. While there a council of war was 
called, and it was determined not to make an attack upon Ga- 
toomba until another message of a peaceful character had been 
sent. Accordingly, two interesting young men were sent to 
this monster of cruelty, and both ivere murdered in cold blood. 
Governor Buchanan then, in hopes that the king, to whom 
Gatoomba owed allegiance, would interfere and punish, still 
put off the day of vengeance, until a messenger could go to 
Boporo, the capital of the Condo country, and ascertain his 
sentiments, 

"Who, in view of these facts, will censure the colonists as 
having provoked a war ? Who can fail to see that they have 
been a shield for the remnant of a murdered and innocent 
tribe ? Who will say they ought to have refused the poor Dey 
people a shelter and a home, or, that having received them, 
they ought to have stood by passive, while these defenceless 
people were murdered and carried into captivity?" 

Governor Buchanan, for the purpose of getting Gatoomba 
into his power, interdicted all trade between the colony and 
the country lying north of the St. Pauls, and a rigid embargo 
was kept up for nearly nine months. But this measure did not 
have the effect intended; for a universal law prevails among 
the natives, against betraying a headman into the power of an 
enemy; yet to save appearances, Gatoomba was driven from 
his town, and forced to skulk in the woods, without a house to 
shelter himself from the rains, or the means of subsistence, 
except what the palm trees and wild yams afibrded him. To 
this wretched and vagabond condition was the powerful chief 
of Sooce reduced, in consequence of his attack upon the colony. 
When Governor Buchanan became convinced that he could 
not accomplish his object in this way, he took measures to 
have the embargo removed in such a way as to prevent sus- 
picion that he had been defeated in his purpose. Accordingly, 
he compromised the affair, by demanding five bullocks as a 
reparation for the injury done to the colony, which the natives 
joyfully paid, and trade was again opened. Governor Bucha- 
nan found great difficulty in maintaining his position with re- 
gard to the embargo for such a length of time, as it was directly 
against the interests of the merchants, and most of the people 
of the country; but the result was favourable to the colony: 
50 



590 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

and the fact of having compelled a nation so powerful and 
distant, to pay an indemnity for the aggressions of their allies, 
and to receive as a boon, the permission to trade with the 
colony, greatly increased their influence in the country. 

A difficulty yet more painful than war in such circumstances 
with savages, arose in the bosom of the colony. For obvious 
reasons the goods necessary for the several missionary estab- 
lishments had been made by law duty free. The missionary 
labours of the Methodist Episcopal Church had been early 
and very zealously directed to Liberia. Goods adapted to 
purposes of trade, were the best means of remitting from their 
treasury in this country, to their missionaries there. A differ- 
ence of opinion soon sprang up between the head of the mis- 
sion and the Governor. It was contended on the one hand, 
that all the goods necessary in any way to carrying on the 
mission, should be admitted free of duty; and on the other, 
that only those supplies for the personal use of the missionaries, 
were included in the privilege. Because the expenditures of 
the mission amounted in the aggregate to a large sum, and 
were met by the sale or barter of such commodities, the greater 
part of the trade would by this means come into the hands of 
the missionaries, and they would thus be able to undersell the 
colonial merchants, of whom duties were required. The Gov- 
ernor adhered firmly to his interpretation of the law, and there 
is much reason to regret that his decision was not submitted to; 
as in the controversies which followed, many painful things were 
done and said. The colonists took part in it, and a serious 
rupture was for a time feared. It would not be wise to enter 
into statements, which, however true, might provoke reply, 
after peace has been restored, but justice to Governor Bucha- 
nan requires us to say, that the American Colonization Society 
sustained him in his course throughout, and by emphatic re- 
corded resolutions, approved, without qualification, of all his 
measures. His motives and character, though assailed in the 
heat of party, came bright and pure through the ordeal. His 
friends who loved him before, found only reason to love him 
the more, and cherish his memory with the greater reverence 
and esteem, for having shared with his divine Master in the 
baptism of undeserved reproach. 

The American Colonization Society sent out two expeditions 
to Africa this year. The ship Saluda left Norfolk on the 14th 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 591 

of February, with one hundred and eighteen emigrants, and a 
full cargo of trade goods and provisions. The Rev. Mr. Minor 
and lady and the Rev, Mr. Smith went out to join the Episco- 
pal mission at Cape Palmas. Dr. Goheen of the Methodist mis- 
sion, was also a passenger. This vessel arrived at Monrovia 
on the 17th of March; most of the emigrants were taken to 
Bexley, where comfortable log cabins had been built for them; 
the rest remained at Bassa Cove. 

The Saluda sailed again on her second trip this year, but 
after being out but a short time she sprung a leak, and was 
compelled to put into Delaware Bay and proceed up to Phila- 
delphia. During her stay in Philadelphia, undergoing repairs, 
the emigrants were visited by whites and blacks representing 
the horrors of Liberia: but the impressions made upon them 
were unknown, even to the captain, until a few days before 
he was to sail, when one man and his wife left the ship. All 
the others appeared to be contented, until the ship was about to 
haul off to recommence her voyage, when several others went 
ashore. After being out about two hundred leagues, she sprung 
another leak and was compelled to put into New York. A 
new barque, the Hobart, was immediately chartered, and sailed 
about the middle of September, and arrived at Monrovia after 
a long voyage of fifty-seven days. 

Towards the close of the year 1839, Governor Buchanan was 
thrown into some perplexity, with respect to the case of some 
slave ships which had been brought and delivered up to him 
by officers of the British navy. He was in doubt what he 
should do with them, and even whether he was authorized to 
receive them. In one of his despatches he says, " I hope some 
definite instructions may be given me, both by the society and 
the government, in relation to these most embarrassing cases. 
I cannot bear to see these pirates escape when brought into my 
power, but it perplexes me beyond measure to know how to 
act." 

In the beginning of this year, (1840) the United States brig 
Dolphin, Captain Bell, arrived on the coast, which gave great 
joy to the colony. The Liberia Herald says on this occasion, 
"We hail her arrival as an epoch in our history, and look 
forward with confidence to a steadily progressive improvement 
in our colony. The Grampus is hourly expected to join her, 
and probably another vessel will be added to the list. We are 



592 HisTORr OF African colonization. 

pleased with the gentlemanly deportment of Captain Bell and 
his officers, who seem in turn to be pleased and gratified at the 
improvement made in the colony. We wish them success in 
their enterprise, and do most sincerely hope they may be spared 
to return to their happy country, and the bosom of their fami- 
lies. We may consider the gun that announced this arrival, 
the knell of slavery on this part of the coast." 

The Grampus, Captain Payne, arrived in the beginning of 
April. These vessels cruised off the coast, for the purpose of 
preventing the prosecution of the slave trade under American 
colours, which had been greatly complained of by the British 
squadron, and at the commencement of the rainy season they 
returned to the United States for supplies. From the report of 
the commanding officers, it appears that the slave trade is 
carried on principally under Portuguese colours, procuring 
their cargoes from slave stations on the coast, which are under 
the protection of native chiefs, who furnish slaves, and receive 
in return goods manufactured in England expressly for the 
purpose. And the officers express the opinion, that so long 
as these stations are permitted to exist, and this barter is carried 
on, all attempts to arrest this traffic will but aggravate the 
disease. 

A war broke out this year in the neighbourhood of Bassa 
Cove, between Bob Grey and Joe Harris on one side, and the 
natives at New Cesters and the Fishmen of the Cove on the 
other. It appears that the two chiefs. Grey and Harris, were 
accused by the people of New Cesters of being inimical to the 
people of the country, because they sold land to the Americans, 
and countenanced the establishment of the settlement, thereby 
throwing obstacles in the way of the slave trade generally, 
and actually causing it to be broken up at Bassa Cove. This 
war was originated by a man named Theodore Canot,a Floren- 
tine by birth, but a naturalized citizen of the United States. 
He was the owner of the slave factories at New Cesters, and 
was afraid that they would be broken up by the people of the 
colony. Governor Buchanan upon hearing of the attack upon 
Grey and Harris sent a messenger to Prince, of New Cesters, 
demanding the reason of the attack. In his despatches to the 
Society he says, " No truth is more certain than that sooner or 
later we must fight the slavers or surrender the high principles 
on which we have planted ourselves. As long as they remain 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 593 

in the neighbourhood, they will annoy and injure us through 
the medium of the savages, whom they possess such abun- 
dant means to influence. For my own part, I care not hov/ 
soon the collision may come; it would be much less hazardous, 
and infinitely more agreeable to fight them, than to be exposed 
to these repeated conflicts in the outskirts of the colony with 
the natives." 

About the middle of November, Captain Denman, of the 
British navy, landed in his boats at New Cesters, with about 
two hundred men, and took possession of the place. The 
Spaniards made no resistance, but fled into the woods: they 
took with them most of their slaves, amounting to two or three 
thousand, but left all of their other property, which was taken 
possession of and destroyed by the captors. In the month of 
December, Governor Buchanan received a letter from Lieu- 
tenant Seagram, commanding Her Britannic Majesty's brig 
Termagant, informing him that he had completed an arrange- 
ment with Canot, by which it was agreed that he should de- 
liver up all his slaves to Seagram to be carried to Sierra Leone, 
and thenceforth to abandon the slave trade entirely. Another 
part of the agreement was that Canot should remain at New 
Cesters, and carry on business as a regular trader under the 
sanction and protection of the English government. In regard 
to this agreement Governor Buchanan says, " If Seagram made 
this agreement by authority, it would seem that his govern- 
ment intends occupying that place. This would be a dismem- 
bering of our territory, by cutting ofl" our Northern settlements 
from Sinou and Cape Palmas. Can it be possible that a great 
nation would descend to such a wicked and contemptible thing ? 
I cannot think it." 

A fair view of what the slave trade was at this time, is given 
by Captain Bell, of the United States navy. In a letter to a 
friend, he says: " From the best information that could be ob- 
tained, there are now, and have been for several years past, 
shipped from Africa, upwards of two hundred and fifty thou- 
sand slaves per annum. This appears incredible to those who 
have not examined into the subject, but when it is considered 
that sixty-two vessels carrying, or prepared to carry, upon an 
average three hundred each, were sent into Sierra Leone last 
year, in addition to those sent to the Cape of Good Hope, and 
captured in the West Indies and on the Coast of Brazil, and 
50* 



594 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

that not more than one in six is captured, as I was credibly in- 
formed, it will be found to fall within the above estimate. 

" In consequence of the chance of capture, the poor negroes 
suffer ten-fold more misery than in the early stages of the 
traffic; they crowd them in small, fast sailing vessels, at the 
rate of two, and sometimes even four to the ton, with a slave 
deck but two feet two inches high ; as was the case with a 
slaver lately sent into Sierra Leone. So dreadful is their situa- 
tion that one in ten dies in crossing the ocean; consequently, 
twenty-Jive thousand human beings are thus destroyed in a 
year. 

« Previous to the settlement of Liberia, the mouths of the 
rivers St. Paul, Mesurado, and St. John were the greatest 
marts for slaves on the windward coast. Thousands came 
annually down those streams for transportation; now those 
rivers are used by the husbandmen to bring their produce to 
Monrovia, Grand Bassa, and Edina, and the negro paddles his 
canoe in safety under the protection of the benevolent institu- 
tions founded by the Colonization Society. When these facts 
are so well known, is it not strange that the British Govern- 
ment, who appear so anxious to stop this traffic, do not use 
other means for this purpose? It will occur to every one, 
that the only effectual way (on this part of the coast at least) 
to destroy this vile trade, is to break up the slave stations. 
As far as I could learn, there are but two, between Cape St. 
Ann, and Cape Coast Castle — one at Gallinas, and the other 
at New Cesters. One hundred resolute men landed at either 
of those places, would break up the whole concern in a few 
hours; under present circumstances, such are the immense pro- 
fits, it never will stop. Pedro Blanco, who is one of the principal 
slave dealers at Gallinas, as well as others in the trade, say, 
that if they can save one vessel in three, the business is still 
profitable. This can easily be believed; for I was informed, 
when at the Gallinas a few days ago, that slaves could be pur- 
chased for less than twenty dollars a piece in trade, and the 
price for them in Cuba is about three hundred and fifty dol- 
lars cash. A short time before I came on the coast, the ship 
Venus of Havana, took on board at Gallinas nine hundred, and 
about eight hundred were landed in Cuba, and after paying for 
the vessel and all expenses, she cleared two hundred thousand 
dollars. 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 595 

"The slave stations are generally owned by Spaniards or 
Portuguese, who pretend to place themselves under the pro- 
tection of the negro king in their vicinity. They furnish him 
with muskets, ammunition, &c., which makes him more power- 
ful than the chiefs around him, on whom he makes war. He 
attacks their towns, puts to death all the old persons and small 
children, and the rest are brought to the coast and sold to 
his employers. Here they are placed in slave baracoons (or 
prisons,) ready to ship when a vessel arrives. At Gallinas 
there are now five thousand waiting for opportunities to send 
off. A slaver anchors in the evening, takes on board three or 
four hundred that night, and is otf with the land breeze in the 
morning. If she can run twenty miles without molestation, 
she is beyond the usual cruising ground of men-of-war, and 
safe until she arrives in the vicinity of the West Indies, where 
her chance of capture is very small." 

The health of the colony during this year, was remarkably 
good, except in the case of the emigrants who went out in the 
Saluda. Of these forty-two died; no adequate cause can be 
given for this great mortality. They were all provided with 
comfortable quarters immediately on landing, and every pos- 
sible attention paid to them during their illness. The subject 
of education was attracting more attention than in former 
years. Governor Buchanan encouraged the colonists to esta- 
blish primary schools in the several districts and settlements in 
the colony, by paying a portion of the salaries of the teachers. 
Instruction in the higher branches of education was given in a 
free school supported by the Methodist mission at Monrovia. 
It is an interesting fact, that the Methodists established this year 
on the St. Paul's, a manual labour school. The colony also 
made advances in agriculture, and in the raising of stock. 
Nineteen thousand coffee trees were planted out, and more 
attention was given to farming their lands. Instead of the 
common timber of the country being used, hedges of lemon and 
lime trees were planted, which formed a substantial and dura- 
ble fence. 



596 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 



CHAPTER XXXIV. 



THE COLONY IN 1841. 

On the 24th of February, 1841, the United States sloop of war 
Cyane, arrived at Monrovia, and Commander Latimer kindly 
took Governor Buchanan on board, and together they visited 
Bassa Cove, Sinou, and Cape Palmas. The following letter 
from Commander Latimer to the Secretary of the Navy is 
worthy of attention: "The arrival of this ship on the 24th of 
February, at Cape Mesurado, town of Monrovia, was hailed 
by the colonists with great pleasure. I paid a visit with Go- 
vernor Buchanan, under whose judicious and able guidance 
the colony is directed, to the towns of Caldwell, on the St. 
Paul's, and New Georgia, on the Stockton river. The latter is 
settled by liberated African slaves, recaptured by our cruisers, 
and returned to their country by the government. I found both 
places in a very prosperous and flourishing state; each family 
occupying a comfortable house, and the grounds around under 
good cultivation, with an abundance of the comforts of life; 
and all cheerful, and perfectly contented with their situation, 
and not an emigrant expressed a desire to leave his adopted 
country and return to the United States. Besides the grounds 
around their houses, which supply them with a superabundance 
for their immediate wants, farms in the rear of the settlements 
are cultivated to some extent, and sugar-cane has been success- 
fully introduced, and the cultivation of it is increasing. 

"I will here remark, that all the recaptured Africans have 
embraced the Christian faith, and some have married with the 
emigrant women, and feel themselves very superior to the 
natives around them. They have the same privileges as the 
emigrants, are enrolled in the militia, have a vote at the elec- 
tions, and each man has his musket; they have a school, and a 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 597 

competent person to teach their children, and some of the adults 
have learned to read, and have adopted in all respects the cus- 
toms of the emigrants. 

"On ascending the Stockton, we stopped at Bushrod Island, 
on which the public farm is situated, and where the sugar-cane, 
cassada, sweet potato, plantains, bananas, and Indian corn are 
all growing with the greatest luxuriance. I found a mill, &c. 
erected for grinding cane, which had been in operation one sea- 
son, and was found to answer the purpose very well. We 
returned in the evening to Monrovia, much delighted with our 
visit, and my most sanguine expectations very far exceeded. 

"The town of Monrovia is finely situated on the peninsula 
which joins the cape to the main land. Its position is high, 
sloping gradually on the north side to the Mesurado river, 
along the banks of which the storehouses are built. It com- 
mands a fine prospect of the sea to the south, and Mesurado 
bay on the north, and has a population of about eight hundred 
persons. I was gratified to find the most strict observance of 
religious worship, and that great attention is paid to the educa- 
tion of their children. The inhabitants are intelligent, and 
generally engaged in mercantile pursuits; but the business of 
the place is on the decline, principally owing to the want of 
articles for exportation— camwood, palm oil, and ivory being 
the only commodities they offer in the way of trade, which are 
obtained from the natives, and not in great abundance. Many 
have accumulated a handsome property, and have retired from 
the mercantile business, and are turning their attention to agri- 
culture. Coffee of the finest kind grows wild in the forest, and 
they are now rearing plants from the seed for their planta- 
tions, and in time sugar and coffee will become staples of the 
colony." 

^ A union of the American Colonization Society and the Mis- 
sissippi State Colonization Society was effected this year. The 
following are the articles of agreement, entered into between 
the Rev. Mr. McLain, the authorized agent of the American 
Colonization Society, of the one part, and the executive com- 
mittee of the Mississippi State Colonization Society, of the other 
part. 

It has been mutually agreed and determined as follows, viz: 

1. That any and all land purchased, or hereafter to be pur- 



598 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

chased, by the American Colonization Society north of the river 
Sinou,and south of the river Cesters, shall be transferred to the 
Mississippi State Colonization Society, at its original cost, so as 
to extend their territory ultimately to those limits, when it may 
be deemed necessary by them. 

2. That all freed slaves, or free coloured people from the 
state of Mississippi, shall be entitled to a settlement within the 
territory of Mississippi in Liberia, they, or the persons sending 
them out, desiring it. 

3. That all funds arising from collections, legacies, donations, 
or other contributions within the state of Mississippi, shall be 
applied to defraying the expenses of sending out emigrants from 
said State to said territory, and other expenses incident thereto: 
Provided, That all salaries of agents and expenses in said State, 
shall be first deducted from the amount collected. 

4. That the citizens of Mississippi in Liberia, shall enjoy all 
the privileges and immunities secured by the constitution of the 
commonwealth of Liberia, and shall be governed by the same 
laws. 

5. That without surrendering or infringing the right of ap- 
pointing their own chief Magistrate for their own colony, re- 
served by the Mississippi State Colonization Society, in their 
acceptance of the constitution of the American Colonization 
Society, and acceded to by the said American Colonization 
Society, for the purpose of greater economy, and efficiency 
under present circumstances, the Mississippi State Colonization 
Society depute to the Governor of Liberia, for the time being, 
and until otherwise ordered, all executive power in relation to 
their colony, with full authority to appoint a deputy or resi- 
dent agent, who shall receive instructions from, and be held 
responsible to, said Governor. 

6. That said Governor shall forward to the Mississippi State 
Colonization Society, a quarterly account of all disbursements 
made by him or deputy agent, for the benefit of the said colony 
of Mississippi in Liberia. 

7. While exercising these functions, the Governor of Liberia 
is to receive no separate or additional salary. But he shall be, 
and hereby is authorized to stipulate for a suitable compensa- 
tion in the way of salary, for his deputy or resident agent. 

8. That the Mississippi Colonization Society will pay a pro 
rata part of the salary to the Governor of Liberia, in propor- 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 599 

tion to their representation in the Colonial Council, or their 
aggregate population, 

9. That a travelling agent, for the state of Mississippi, (and 
Louisiana, if they wish it,) shall be appointed by the American 
Colonization Society, with the advice and consent of the Mis- 
sissippi State Colonization Society, who shall hold the funds 
raised by him, subject to the order of the American Coloniza- 
tion Society, and shall make an annual report to the Mississippi 
State Colonization Society, of the amount collected, and of the 
general prosperity of the cause throughout the State. 

On the 5th of July, the squadron composing the Niger expe- 
dition entered the harbour of Monrovia. Governor Buchanan 
in a despatch, says, " This long looked for expedition, as it 
entered our harbour, presented a beautiful and novel appear- 
ance. The three steamers and store-ship, were nearly in a line 
as they approached, and with the steam up and all sails set, 
they made a gallant show. Captain Trotter, Commander 
Allen, and a number of the officers and gentlemen of the scien- 
tific corps, came on shore, and dined at my house, and spent 
the afternoon. The next morning I went on board the 'Albert,' 
with General Roberts, the Secretary, Dr. Day, and Mr. Perkins, 
and breakfasted with Captain Trotter and his associate com- 
missioners. In the evening of that day, they weighed anchor, 
and sailed for Cape Coast Castle." 

Governor Buchanan regretted that they could not remain 
longer and acquire some knowledge of the practical results of 
the scheme of colonization. Captain Trotter and all his officers, 
expressed themselves highly pleased with the aspect of things 
in the colony. " The idea of our maintaining a government," 
says Governor Buchanan, "independent of the United States, 
and without its patronage, was what they could scarcely credit; 
they were greatly surprised at the evidence of the efficiency 
and success of our institutions. One of the gentlemen asked 
what we would do without the protection of the United States, 
in case we were attacked by the natives? I replied, that we had 
suffered many attacks already, and had succeeded in protecting 
ourselves, and hoped still to do so, without further aid than the 
favour of God. They had heard of our conflicts with tbe na- 
tives and slavers, but in some way had attributed the success 
of the colonists to the United States. It is surprising how Ihtle 



600 HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

is known in England about the colony, even among that class 
who take a deep interest in all that concerns Africa. With 
all its simplicity, it is to them a subject very difficult of compre- 
hension. The European ideas of colonies and colonial govern- 
ments are so totally inapplicable to Liberia, that a person 
trained in those ideas, finds himself completely at fault here, 
and is forced to become a learner on a subject with which he 
had supposed himself perfectly conversant. There is no where 
visible the strong arm of the mother country— the signs of her 
patronage are wanting— the people alone, in their weakness 
and simplicity, are the government. This is what the European 
can neither understand nor tolerate; but it is, under God, the 
great secret of our success, and it is what will yet raise Liberia 
to an eminence among the nations of the earth, and make her 
the eflective agent in the emancipation of Africa. We cannot, 
I fear, hope for any co-operation in our plans of action from 
Englishmen, until they improve in their political creed, and 
learn to put more trust in men." 

Four expeditions were sent out during the year 1841 to 
Liberia. The first was the brig R. Groning, which sailed from 
Norfolk on the third of February. It carried out forty-one 
emigrants of the most promising description. In this ship went 
out the Rev. Orin K. Canfield and Jonathan P. Alward, with 
their wives, as missionaries of the Presbyterian Board to the 
Kroomen, and Cecilia Vantine, a coloured woman as teacher. 
After a tedious voyage of forty-one days, the vessel arrived at 
Monrovia. The next expedition of the year was the bark 
Union, a fine vessel of three hundred tons burden. This ves- 
sel sailed from New Orleans on the thirteenth day of May, car- 
rying out forty-three emigrants, all of them well supplied with 
cooking utensils, household furniture, and implements of hus- 
bandry. She arrived at INIonrovia on the 30th of June, and the 
emigrants were immediately placed in houses, hired for the 
purpose. It was the usual custom to place the emigrants in 
their own houses as soon as they arrived; but this was render- 
ed inexpedient on account of the illness of Dr. Day, who was 
unable to attend to any number of sick persons, unless under 
the most favourable circumstances; and in order to secure his 
attendance it was necessary to procure quarters for them in the 
town. 

The third expedition of this year was the schooner Regulus. 



HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 601 

She sailed from Norfolk on the 18th of June. This vessel was 
purchased by the society for the use of the colony, and was 
intended to run between the different settlements of the colony. 
She carried out but one emigrant, but a large amount of goods 
for the colony, and for the purpose of purchasing territory. 

The last expedition of the year was an unfortunate one to 
the society. They had engaged a merchantman, the Saluda, at 
great expense, and made provisions for a large number of emi- 
grants; but circumstances occurred, over which the society had 
no control, which prevented all but six of those who were ex- 
pected from going. As passengers in this ship, were the Rev. 
Mr. Sawyer and lady, missionaries of the Assembly's Board, 
destined to Settra Kroo, Dr. Johnson, Rev. Mr. Roberts, Judge 
Benedict, Mr. Savage, and Mrs. Oliver, colonists, and Simon 
Peter, a native African, and a convert to Christianity, all of 
whom had been on a visit to this country. 

The Regulus arrived at the colony too late to effect the object 
for which she had been sent out, viz. to purchase the tracts of 
land in which Gallinas and New Cesters are situated. They 
found that the slave traders and others interested, had excited 
the natives of these two places in such a manner that no treaty 
could be made with them. Nevertheless, Governor Buchanan, 
through the agency of J. Brown, Esq., was enabled to purchase 
the tracts on the coast, known as the Grand Boutaw, Little 
Boutaw, and Blue Barre — a distance on the sea of fifty miles, 
and extending indefinitely inland. This transfer made for a 
valuable consideration, subjected the native inhabitants to the 
laws of the colony, and annulled all their laws and customs 
which were contrary to the customs of the colony. 

At the close of this year the colony were called upon to 
mourn the loss of Thomas Buchanan, their Governor. His 
death was brought about by exposure in attending to the inte- 
rests of the colony. J. J. Roberts, the Lieutenant-Governor, in 
his official despatch to this country, gives the following account 
of his death. "No sooner had the Society's vessel arrived (23d 
July) than Governor Buchanan determined to visit the leeward 
settlements, and on the afternoon of the 24tli he departed, in 
apparent good health, on board the schooner Regulus, for 
Marshall, where he arrived the following day. Immediately 
after his arrival at that place he was attacked with fever, which 
continued at intervals for several days. He unfortunately left 
51 



502 HISTORY OP AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 

this place without taking with him any quinine, nor could any 
be procured at Marshall. He determined, nevertheless, to con- 
tinue his voyage, and on the 31st in attempting to reach the 
schooner, was much exposed to rain, and was thoroughly drench- 
ed in the surf, which brought on another paroxysm of the fever 
with redoubled violence. During the passage to Bassa Cove 
he suffered very much from sea sickness, which, added to the 
fever, made him very uncomfortable. He arrived at Bassa on 
the morning of the 1st of August, and was confined to his bed 
until the 7th, when he again found himself convalescent. He 
immediately commenced the discharge of his various duties, 
which he found exceedingly arduous, and, notwithstanding his 
late illness, he persisted in a course of unwarrantable zeal, 
which soon prostrated him again. After a few days' relaxa- 
tion he partially recovered, and again resumed his duties. It 
was too much for his shattered constitution; he sunk under it, 
and, alas! he is gone. 

"The death of Governor Buchanan has cast a gloom over 
Liberia. The commonwealth deeply mourns his loss. He was 
a man in all respects calculated to take care of the interests of 
this infant republic, and that his place can be easily supplied is 
doubtful. In the administration of his government he was 
firm and decided, dealing justice to all without partiality to 
any." 

He died on the 3d of September, at the government house at 
Bassa. Dr. Day, in a letter to the Hon. S. Wilkison, in speak- 
ing of Governor Buchanan's death says: "All that remains of 
him, except the glory of his benevolent and devoted career, lies 
entombed in the government grounds at Bassa, beneath some 
stately trees shading the house built by him five or six years 
ago. While the green turf flourishes, and the south sea breezes 
spread the perfumes of flowers planted on the spot sacred to 
his ashes, may his memory abide in the heart of every Libe- 
rian, and his praises difl'use a sacred love for his name in the 
bosom of every coloured man, to whose cause he was so 
wholly and ardently devoted. Bound as he was to his mother- 
land by ties that bind a son to a much loved and widowed 
mother and half orphan sisters and brother, he thought not the 
sacrifice too great to forsake all for the love of the cause in 
which he was embarked. What was his self-dedication to the 
glorious work of fostering the germ of Africa's redemption, we 



HISTORY OF AFRICAN COLONIZATION. 603 

learn from a scrap of his, penned on his first voyage to this 
country in December, 1835. "The God who tempers the wind 
to the shorn lamb, can also temper the rays of a tropical sun 
to a northern constitution. But though he slay me, yet ivill I 
trust in him. The work is his to which I go, and is ivorthy 
of all sacrifice.^'' 



THE END. 



